APGA 's candidate Willie Obiano the winner of the Anambra Guber Election
Professor Chukwuemeka Onukogu, the Resident Commissioner of INEC in Anambra state declared in Awka that Mr. Obiano won the election by polling 180,178 votes in 19 local government areas in the state.
The total votes won by the APGA candidates constitutes 25% of the votes in at least 19 LGAs out of the 21 LGAs in the state.
The election results were declared after the completion of yesterday's supplementary elections which was boycotted by major parties that earlier participated in the first ballot.
Happy new months pople,wishing you all the best of all Things you wish for
Saturday, November 30, 2013
ASUU Strike: UNN, ESUT announce Dec. 2 resumption date, fix outstanding examinations dates
The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), and the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), said their academic activities would resume on Monday, Dec. 2. They made the announcement in separate statements issued in Nsukka and Enugu on Saturday.
The Registrar of the UNN, Mr Anthony Okonta, in the statement, stressed that "normal academic activities would resume immediately.''
The statement directed students who had outstanding examinations for the 2012/2013 session to report to their respective faculties and departments in Nsukka and Enugu campuses.
The ESUT Registrar, Mr Chris Igbokwe, also advised students and academic and non- academic staff to report to the institution on Dec. 2.
According to the statement, students are advised to return to their campuses at Agbani and Enugu campuses as the second semester examination would commence on Monday, Dec. 9,
The Federal Government in a statement issued by the Supervising Minister of Education, Mr Nyesom Wike on Thursday have directed all federal universities to resume work on or before Dec. 4, or consider themselves sacked.
here is a simple advice to ASUU,call off the strike already,before you do so in shame.....and it would look like all these fights would be for nothing#justathought
The Registrar of the UNN, Mr Anthony Okonta, in the statement, stressed that "normal academic activities would resume immediately.''
The statement directed students who had outstanding examinations for the 2012/2013 session to report to their respective faculties and departments in Nsukka and Enugu campuses.
The ESUT Registrar, Mr Chris Igbokwe, also advised students and academic and non- academic staff to report to the institution on Dec. 2.
According to the statement, students are advised to return to their campuses at Agbani and Enugu campuses as the second semester examination would commence on Monday, Dec. 9,
The Federal Government in a statement issued by the Supervising Minister of Education, Mr Nyesom Wike on Thursday have directed all federal universities to resume work on or before Dec. 4, or consider themselves sacked.
here is a simple advice to ASUU,call off the strike already,before you do so in shame.....and it would look like all these fights would be for nothing#justathought
Anambra Election: Supplementary poll witness low turn out
Despite the fact that INEC officials and materials arrived at the various polling centres as early as 6.00 a.m. The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the polls, scheduled for 210 units, however, continued to record low turn-out of voters in most of the polling units.
There was heavy security presence and restriction of movement, especially in Idemili North Local Government Area, which is the stronghold of the candidate of the All Progressives Congress Sen. Chris Ngige.
The candidate of the People's Democratic Party , Mr Tony Nwoye, his Labour Party counterpart, Mr Ifeanyi Ubah and the APC had earlier said that they would boycott the poll.
At one of the polling unit;Chukwura Primary School one, Unit 006 in Abatete, in the council area, 42 voters out of 382 that registered had been accredited as at 12:00 noon.
Also at Chukwura Primary School two, polling unit 007, only 16 registered voters were accredited out of 123 as at the same period.
An observer with the Transition Monitoring Group , Mr John Chukwuma, who was at the polling units, told NAN that the apathy could be due to inadequate voter sensitisation in the area.
He, however, commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for its "timely mobilisation of materials and commencement of the exercise".
At Ogidi Town Hall one and two, units 009, 010 and 021, only 45 voters were accredited out of 372 as at 11:30 a.m.
At Igweamaka Primary school polling unit 016, in Anaocha Local Governemnt Area, which had 276 registered voters, officials of INEC arrived at the unit as early as 6:30 a.m. for the polls.
The electoral officer in-charge of the area, Mrs Patricia Ndibe, said accreditation of voters began at exactly 8 a.m., adding that as at 10 a.m., only 50 voters had been accredited.
It was further reported that only the All Progressives Grand Alliance had its agent at the polling booth.
However, the local council chairman of APC, who simply identified himself as Mr Egbobe, said he was at the station to observe and not to take part in the exercise "as directed by the party leadership".
An accredited voter, Mrs. Florence Oraedum, said that the apathy could be due to people's disenchantment with INEC on the conduct of the entire exercise.
Oraedum commended the presence of security personnel, which she said, would forestall any break down of law and order.
.....Atleast we coming to the end of this whole saga;hopefully in the next few hours we would know the winner(or do we know already?)#nocomments
There was heavy security presence and restriction of movement, especially in Idemili North Local Government Area, which is the stronghold of the candidate of the All Progressives Congress Sen. Chris Ngige.
The candidate of the People's Democratic Party , Mr Tony Nwoye, his Labour Party counterpart, Mr Ifeanyi Ubah and the APC had earlier said that they would boycott the poll.
At one of the polling unit;Chukwura Primary School one, Unit 006 in Abatete, in the council area, 42 voters out of 382 that registered had been accredited as at 12:00 noon.
Also at Chukwura Primary School two, polling unit 007, only 16 registered voters were accredited out of 123 as at the same period.
An observer with the Transition Monitoring Group , Mr John Chukwuma, who was at the polling units, told NAN that the apathy could be due to inadequate voter sensitisation in the area.
He, however, commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for its "timely mobilisation of materials and commencement of the exercise".
At Ogidi Town Hall one and two, units 009, 010 and 021, only 45 voters were accredited out of 372 as at 11:30 a.m.
At Igweamaka Primary school polling unit 016, in Anaocha Local Governemnt Area, which had 276 registered voters, officials of INEC arrived at the unit as early as 6:30 a.m. for the polls.
The electoral officer in-charge of the area, Mrs Patricia Ndibe, said accreditation of voters began at exactly 8 a.m., adding that as at 10 a.m., only 50 voters had been accredited.
It was further reported that only the All Progressives Grand Alliance had its agent at the polling booth.
However, the local council chairman of APC, who simply identified himself as Mr Egbobe, said he was at the station to observe and not to take part in the exercise "as directed by the party leadership".
An accredited voter, Mrs. Florence Oraedum, said that the apathy could be due to people's disenchantment with INEC on the conduct of the entire exercise.
Oraedum commended the presence of security personnel, which she said, would forestall any break down of law and order.
.....Atleast we coming to the end of this whole saga;hopefully in the next few hours we would know the winner(or do we know already?)#nocomments
Why I was arrested in Benin - Asari Dokubo
T he Leader of the Niger Delta Peoples Volunteer Force and former President of Ijaw Youth Council, Alhaji Mujahid Dokubo-Asari, said he was arrested at the Republic of Benin over an allegation from Nigeria that he was a member of the Boko Haram Islamic sect.
He however attributed his travails in the hands of the Beninoise authorities
to those opposed to the 2015 re-election ambition of President Goodluck Jonathan.
The NDPVF boss who appeared unperturbed by the arrest also said the crises “has raised my profile in that country.”
Speaking with Journalists on Friday night during his arrival at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja he also described as lies, reports that President Jonathan sent a Presidential Jet to fly him into Nigeria from the Republic of Benin.
He said, “Crisis is normal, it can also happen here in Nigeria, it can happen anywhere in the world. The people and government of Republic of Benin have no problem with me. But if people alleged that somebody is a leader of Boko Haram, the government of that country will investigate the person.
“The allegation has much to do with 2015 because when your read comments on social media, you find out that somebody who is against President Goodluck Jonathan, said they should vilify me and make sure I die before 2015. But they are not going to succeed. I am not going to die. I will be present in 2015, and I will do what I am going to do to ensure that Jonathan wins in 2015. There is nothing they can do about it. This is their last fight and it is so unfortunate that the way and manner they are going with it shows how immature they are.”
He also denied that he was flown into Abuja in a Presidential Jet saying it is not true.
Asari said, “I just arrived from Cotonu. I drove in my car from Cotonu to Lagos Airport where I boarded Aero Contractors flight to Abuja. The report is not true. No presidential jet was sent to me.
“That report is an instigated falsehood. Most of the things that have always been written against President Goodluck Jonathan is also falsehood. A section of the press in Nigeria is manipulated and instigated.”
“I do business in Cotonu, and I have been living in Cotonu since 2008. Politically, people who are in Nigeria are trying to fabricate lies, which are not verifiable, and send it to the government of Republic of Benin. So I was taken for interrogation and they found that the allegations were false, and I was promptly released with over 20 of my staff who were also taken in.”
Asari also spoke on his meeting with officials of government of Republic of Benin after his interrogation.
“I have met with the top and powerful people in Republic of Benin, since I went to that country. I have never had any reason to meet with their government officials, but this crisis has made it possible for me to meet with all the top government functionaries of the Republic of Benin. The crises has raised my profile in that country”, he boasted.
source:PunchNg online
He however attributed his travails in the hands of the Beninoise authorities
to those opposed to the 2015 re-election ambition of President Goodluck Jonathan.
The NDPVF boss who appeared unperturbed by the arrest also said the crises “has raised my profile in that country.”
Speaking with Journalists on Friday night during his arrival at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja he also described as lies, reports that President Jonathan sent a Presidential Jet to fly him into Nigeria from the Republic of Benin.
He said, “Crisis is normal, it can also happen here in Nigeria, it can happen anywhere in the world. The people and government of Republic of Benin have no problem with me. But if people alleged that somebody is a leader of Boko Haram, the government of that country will investigate the person.
“The allegation has much to do with 2015 because when your read comments on social media, you find out that somebody who is against President Goodluck Jonathan, said they should vilify me and make sure I die before 2015. But they are not going to succeed. I am not going to die. I will be present in 2015, and I will do what I am going to do to ensure that Jonathan wins in 2015. There is nothing they can do about it. This is their last fight and it is so unfortunate that the way and manner they are going with it shows how immature they are.”
He also denied that he was flown into Abuja in a Presidential Jet saying it is not true.
Asari said, “I just arrived from Cotonu. I drove in my car from Cotonu to Lagos Airport where I boarded Aero Contractors flight to Abuja. The report is not true. No presidential jet was sent to me.
“That report is an instigated falsehood. Most of the things that have always been written against President Goodluck Jonathan is also falsehood. A section of the press in Nigeria is manipulated and instigated.”
“I do business in Cotonu, and I have been living in Cotonu since 2008. Politically, people who are in Nigeria are trying to fabricate lies, which are not verifiable, and send it to the government of Republic of Benin. So I was taken for interrogation and they found that the allegations were false, and I was promptly released with over 20 of my staff who were also taken in.”
Asari also spoke on his meeting with officials of government of Republic of Benin after his interrogation.
“I have met with the top and powerful people in Republic of Benin, since I went to that country. I have never had any reason to meet with their government officials, but this crisis has made it possible for me to meet with all the top government functionaries of the Republic of Benin. The crises has raised my profile in that country”, he boasted.
source:PunchNg online
Lagos govt to close Mile 2-Badagry express way on Sunday
The Lagos State Government has announced planned closure of the Mile 2, Lagos ? Badagry Expressway to traffic, Sunday December 1, 2013, to allow for the on-going construction work on the Lagos Rail Mass Transit Project. Announcing the planned closure, Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Kayode Opeifa, said the measure was to allow for the installation of the pedestrian bridge beam at Mile 2 Lagos rail mass transit station, spanning across the expressway.
Opeifa said the beam launch would leave an impact on the traffic flow on the Badagry bound carriageway and traffic from Apapa ? Oshodi Expressway linking the Lagos ? Badagry Expressway.
He also explained that traffic during the duration of the launch, from 7a.m. to 12 noon will be limited.
The Lagos-Badagry Expressway will be closed to traffic from Orile to Maza Maza Bridge with traffic being diverted via the construction lane. Traffic joining the Badagry Expressway from Oshodi-Apapa Expressway will not be able to access the Badagry Expressway and will therefore be diverted via the Festac link road to rejoin the Expressway at Festac," he said.
The state government had earlier closed the road on October 20, 2013 in the first phase to carry out similar work on the project.
Opeifa said the beam launch would leave an impact on the traffic flow on the Badagry bound carriageway and traffic from Apapa ? Oshodi Expressway linking the Lagos ? Badagry Expressway.
He also explained that traffic during the duration of the launch, from 7a.m. to 12 noon will be limited.
The Lagos-Badagry Expressway will be closed to traffic from Orile to Maza Maza Bridge with traffic being diverted via the construction lane. Traffic joining the Badagry Expressway from Oshodi-Apapa Expressway will not be able to access the Badagry Expressway and will therefore be diverted via the Festac link road to rejoin the Expressway at Festac," he said.
The state government had earlier closed the road on October 20, 2013 in the first phase to carry out similar work on the project.
Anambra Election: LP, APC, PDP boycott supplementary poll
Dr. Chris Ngige,the candidate of the All Progressive Party (APC), Mr.Ifeanyi Ubah of Labour Party (LP) and Comrade Tony Nwoye, Peoples Democratic party (PDP) have opted out of the supplementary poll.
In a statement by Mr. Emmanuel Ibeleme, a member of the Ifeanyi Ubah Campaign Organisation, he said, "Labour Party will not take part in the supplementary election which is ongoing already.
Meanwhile, communities retorted to traditional means of mobilization by hiring town criers.
The town criers went round the different communities with a public address system appealing to electorate to come out today and cast their votes.
Supplementary elections are expected to place in 210 polling units across Anambra state.
More details coming up.........
In a statement by Mr. Emmanuel Ibeleme, a member of the Ifeanyi Ubah Campaign Organisation, he said, "Labour Party will not take part in the supplementary election which is ongoing already.
Meanwhile, communities retorted to traditional means of mobilization by hiring town criers.
The town criers went round the different communities with a public address system appealing to electorate to come out today and cast their votes.
Supplementary elections are expected to place in 210 polling units across Anambra state.
More details coming up.........
Friday, November 29, 2013
Akwa Ibom Women threatens to protest Naked over Alleged Encroachment of Community Land by the State Govt.
The Women of Enniong Offot, Offot clan in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State,Nigeria
are threatening to embark on a naked street protest and also invoke the
gods of the land, if the state government insist on seizing their land.
The women who had recently embarked on a peaceful protest said ministry officials are fond of moving in and out of their community to allot and sell parcels of land to people, claiming that land in Eniong had been taken over by the state government.
Mr Patrick Edet,spokesperson for the community has also warned the ministry officials to stop trespassing on their land as the land's right of occupancy was not revoked in year 2000 as claimed by Ministry of Lands recently in a report published in newspapers.
In reaction to the protest, Obong Eno Akpan, Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Lands and Town Planning, said the expiration of the tenure of the government that acquired and paid compensation for the land did not mean the end of government. The state government also described as fraudulent and criminal, the re-occupation of land by former owners after collecting compensation.
source: NAN
The women who had recently embarked on a peaceful protest said ministry officials are fond of moving in and out of their community to allot and sell parcels of land to people, claiming that land in Eniong had been taken over by the state government.
Mr Patrick Edet,spokesperson for the community has also warned the ministry officials to stop trespassing on their land as the land's right of occupancy was not revoked in year 2000 as claimed by Ministry of Lands recently in a report published in newspapers.
In reaction to the protest, Obong Eno Akpan, Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Lands and Town Planning, said the expiration of the tenure of the government that acquired and paid compensation for the land did not mean the end of government. The state government also described as fraudulent and criminal, the re-occupation of land by former owners after collecting compensation.
source: NAN
Thursday, November 28, 2013
UNIABUJA CALLS OF STRIKE
UNIABUJA has called off her strike, it was annouced earlier today by the registerar of the school on RAY POWER FM and students have been urged to resume on the 1st of December,2013. which is on Sunday.
more details coming up soon
more details coming up soon
Uduaghan nominates dead man for Delta State Tourism Board
Members of the Delta State House of Assembly were on Tuesday
thrown into a state of astonishment when they discovered that one of
the seven persons nominated by Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan for
appointment into the Delta State Tourism Board had died a while ago.
Last week, Mr. Uduaghan had included the name of James Youmu in a list of nominees for the state's tourism board that was forwarded to the legislature for screening and confirmation. Mr. Youmu has been dead
The other nominees for the same board are Efe Afe, Peter Okolotu, Hyacinth Iyere, Amah Agbajoh, Abel Eyube and Joe Morg.
There was a mild drama during the screening when Mr. Youmu, the fourth nominee on the list, was called up. Mr. Afe, a former member of the state assembly who was screened as the chairman of the board, immediately told the House that the said James Youmu had died even before the names were sent for screening.
The embarrassing situation raised eyebrows among lawmakers. The strange incident became a new chapter in the governor's controversial actions regarding the membership of the state-owned agencies and parastatals.
Last week, a prominent member of the Delta State House of Assembly had told Sahara Reporters that he was dismayed that the governor sent a list of nominees for the boards of state-owned agencies after the governor had sworn in the nominees into office three months ago. The legislator said that the governor's belated action was "evidence that Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan has lost focus."
Other legislators also told Sahara Reporters that they were taken aback by the governor's letter forwarded a letter with the names of nominees after he had inaugurated them, thereby violating the law. "Why did His Excellency send us names of nominees for state boards for screening and confirmation when the boards were inaugurated by the same governor some months ago?" one of the state lawmakers wondered.
Several of the legislators wondered why none of the governor's aides had warned him against inaugurating boards without first forwarding the names of their members to the state assembly for vetting and approval, as demanded by law.
A letter titled "Request For Confirmation Of Nomination Of Chairmen And Members Of Certain Boards" and personally signed by Governor Uduaghan was accompanied with a list of nominees to be screened for appointment into the Delta State Tourism Board, Delta Broadcasting Service, Warri; Delta Broadcasting Service, Asaba, and Delta State Rural Development Agency.
The latest development, where a dead man's name appeared on the governor's list, caused consternation among Deltans who went to the state assembly to witness the screening and confirmation exercise. "Who come put dead man for board?" one of the spectators mused, speaking in pidgin language.
........I DONT KNOW OOOO, IF YOUASK ME,NA WHO I GO ASK??? LOL
Last week, Mr. Uduaghan had included the name of James Youmu in a list of nominees for the state's tourism board that was forwarded to the legislature for screening and confirmation. Mr. Youmu has been dead
The other nominees for the same board are Efe Afe, Peter Okolotu, Hyacinth Iyere, Amah Agbajoh, Abel Eyube and Joe Morg.
There was a mild drama during the screening when Mr. Youmu, the fourth nominee on the list, was called up. Mr. Afe, a former member of the state assembly who was screened as the chairman of the board, immediately told the House that the said James Youmu had died even before the names were sent for screening.
The embarrassing situation raised eyebrows among lawmakers. The strange incident became a new chapter in the governor's controversial actions regarding the membership of the state-owned agencies and parastatals.
Last week, a prominent member of the Delta State House of Assembly had told Sahara Reporters that he was dismayed that the governor sent a list of nominees for the boards of state-owned agencies after the governor had sworn in the nominees into office three months ago. The legislator said that the governor's belated action was "evidence that Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan has lost focus."
Other legislators also told Sahara Reporters that they were taken aback by the governor's letter forwarded a letter with the names of nominees after he had inaugurated them, thereby violating the law. "Why did His Excellency send us names of nominees for state boards for screening and confirmation when the boards were inaugurated by the same governor some months ago?" one of the state lawmakers wondered.
Several of the legislators wondered why none of the governor's aides had warned him against inaugurating boards without first forwarding the names of their members to the state assembly for vetting and approval, as demanded by law.
A letter titled "Request For Confirmation Of Nomination Of Chairmen And Members Of Certain Boards" and personally signed by Governor Uduaghan was accompanied with a list of nominees to be screened for appointment into the Delta State Tourism Board, Delta Broadcasting Service, Warri; Delta Broadcasting Service, Asaba, and Delta State Rural Development Agency.
The latest development, where a dead man's name appeared on the governor's list, caused consternation among Deltans who went to the state assembly to witness the screening and confirmation exercise. "Who come put dead man for board?" one of the spectators mused, speaking in pidgin language.
........I DONT KNOW OOOO, IF YOUASK ME,NA WHO I GO ASK??? LOL
Neither Orubebe nor Ochei can be governor of Delta state - Edwin Clark
Prominent elder statesman and Ijaw national leader, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo
Clark, has expressed opposition to the declaration by the Minister of
Niger Delta Affairs, Elder Godsday Orubebe, to become the governor of Delta state in 2015. In his view, the Speaker of the
Delta state House of Assembly, Mr. Victor Ochei, is also unqualified
either to be governor of the state, he said today in a press conference
in his residence in Warri.
Chief Clark carpeted the Speaker for abandoning the state Independent Power Plant Project at Oghara after collecting N18 billion out of the N27 billion mega contract, stressing that no work has yet to take place at the project site.
The enlarged press conference was also attended by the state chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Peter Nwaoboshi.
The former Minister of Information expressed regret that Orubebe has caused a lot of embarrassment to the Presidency, stressing that even if it were the turn of the Ijaws to produce the next governor of Delta State, "it will not be Mr Godsday Orubebe and he is fully aware of that".
According to the visibly angry PDP leader, "Mr. President has made his position very clear on this matter. He has categorically stated that he was not going to take a decision on whether he will re-contest the Presidential election in 2015 until 2014 and that he needed time to concentrate on the job he promised Nigerians during 2011 election, when they massively voted for him and therefore directed that none of his ministers and other government functionaries should engage in politics as to declaring their intentions or supporting any one for elective position including senatorial, House of Representatives or gubernatorial."
Orubebe, he said, has flouted that order, and cannot claim ignorance of that fact.
"His flagrant disobedience is no doubt an embarrassment to Mr. President, to the leaders of the party and party faithful, particularly to me that everybody believes, contributed greatly to his becoming minister, having regard to the opposition from former governor, Chief James Onanefe Ibori and his supporters," Clark said.
"Our opponents and detractors are definitely cashing in on Mr. Godsday Orubebe's careless and irresponsible statement and are now using it to insult President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, the Ijaws and even myself that the President and I, are definitely behind him. I have tried to disabuse the minds of the people and deny that neither Mr. President nor I is aware of Mr. Orubebe's statement."
He recalled that he was the one who accompanied Orubebe to the State House in Abuja after his confirmation by the Senate as a Minister and to be sworn in as Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria with three other colleagues of his, followed by the embarrassment when the former Secretary to the Federal Government Amb. Babagana Kingibe, informed him that the President had decided not to swear Orubebe in.
"I left the Executive Chambers with Mr Godsday Orubebe and his wife in disgrace but later summed up courage to address the State House Press on the issue," the former Minister said. "It is therefore, my advice to the Honourable Minister not to allow the spoils of office to derail him or cause him to take wrong judgement."
He described as reckless the assertion by Mr. Orubebe that the governorship should be produced on the basis of ethnicity since the Urhobos and the Itsekiris have produced governors and the Ijaws, Isokos and Ndokwas have not.
In that regard, he reminded Orubebe that peace has been a scarce commodity in Delta state, particularly in the PDP, since the 2007 gubernatorial election, and that it was only last year, following a series of litigations, that there was voluntary reconciliation.
With reference to Mr. Ochei, Clark lamented the inability of the anti-graft agencies to investigate the Oghara IPP project, regretting that a man carrying the burden of failing to execute such a massive public project, is the one now boldly seeking the governorship where he will be protected by the immunity clause.
"This is over two years now, so some people are above the law even when they are yet to become governor when it will be said that they are protected by the immunity clause. Delta State people need a governor who is God fearing, transparent, intelligent and loved by his people," he said.
Contacted on the phone over Clark's comments about him, the Speaker refused to comment.
Clark urged the PDP National Chairman, Bamanga Tukur, to call Orubebe to order and to advise him to withdraw the court cases he has filed, so as to allow peace to reign in the party and State.
Mr. Orubebe shocked many people in political circles last week when he declared, despite a series of corruption allegations against him,that he would enter the Delta State gubernatorial race in 2015
Chief Clark carpeted the Speaker for abandoning the state Independent Power Plant Project at Oghara after collecting N18 billion out of the N27 billion mega contract, stressing that no work has yet to take place at the project site.
The enlarged press conference was also attended by the state chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Peter Nwaoboshi.
The former Minister of Information expressed regret that Orubebe has caused a lot of embarrassment to the Presidency, stressing that even if it were the turn of the Ijaws to produce the next governor of Delta State, "it will not be Mr Godsday Orubebe and he is fully aware of that".
According to the visibly angry PDP leader, "Mr. President has made his position very clear on this matter. He has categorically stated that he was not going to take a decision on whether he will re-contest the Presidential election in 2015 until 2014 and that he needed time to concentrate on the job he promised Nigerians during 2011 election, when they massively voted for him and therefore directed that none of his ministers and other government functionaries should engage in politics as to declaring their intentions or supporting any one for elective position including senatorial, House of Representatives or gubernatorial."
Orubebe, he said, has flouted that order, and cannot claim ignorance of that fact.
"His flagrant disobedience is no doubt an embarrassment to Mr. President, to the leaders of the party and party faithful, particularly to me that everybody believes, contributed greatly to his becoming minister, having regard to the opposition from former governor, Chief James Onanefe Ibori and his supporters," Clark said.
"Our opponents and detractors are definitely cashing in on Mr. Godsday Orubebe's careless and irresponsible statement and are now using it to insult President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, the Ijaws and even myself that the President and I, are definitely behind him. I have tried to disabuse the minds of the people and deny that neither Mr. President nor I is aware of Mr. Orubebe's statement."
He recalled that he was the one who accompanied Orubebe to the State House in Abuja after his confirmation by the Senate as a Minister and to be sworn in as Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria with three other colleagues of his, followed by the embarrassment when the former Secretary to the Federal Government Amb. Babagana Kingibe, informed him that the President had decided not to swear Orubebe in.
"I left the Executive Chambers with Mr Godsday Orubebe and his wife in disgrace but later summed up courage to address the State House Press on the issue," the former Minister said. "It is therefore, my advice to the Honourable Minister not to allow the spoils of office to derail him or cause him to take wrong judgement."
He described as reckless the assertion by Mr. Orubebe that the governorship should be produced on the basis of ethnicity since the Urhobos and the Itsekiris have produced governors and the Ijaws, Isokos and Ndokwas have not.
In that regard, he reminded Orubebe that peace has been a scarce commodity in Delta state, particularly in the PDP, since the 2007 gubernatorial election, and that it was only last year, following a series of litigations, that there was voluntary reconciliation.
With reference to Mr. Ochei, Clark lamented the inability of the anti-graft agencies to investigate the Oghara IPP project, regretting that a man carrying the burden of failing to execute such a massive public project, is the one now boldly seeking the governorship where he will be protected by the immunity clause.
"This is over two years now, so some people are above the law even when they are yet to become governor when it will be said that they are protected by the immunity clause. Delta State people need a governor who is God fearing, transparent, intelligent and loved by his people," he said.
Contacted on the phone over Clark's comments about him, the Speaker refused to comment.
Clark urged the PDP National Chairman, Bamanga Tukur, to call Orubebe to order and to advise him to withdraw the court cases he has filed, so as to allow peace to reign in the party and State.
Mr. Orubebe shocked many people in political circles last week when he declared, despite a series of corruption allegations against him,that he would enter the Delta State gubernatorial race in 2015
President Jonathan Secures the release of Asari Dokubo
President Goodluck Jonathan of Nigeria has secured the release of Alhaji
Mujahid Dokubo-Asari, leader of the Niger Delta People’s Volunteer
Force, who recently arrested in neighboring Benin Republic.
According to Sahara Reporters, Dokubo-Asari was released after President Jonathan personally intervened on his behalf with President Yayi Boni of Benin Republic.
Festus Keyamo, Dokubo-Asari's Lawyer confirmed his release. A presidential jet was sent to transport Dokubo-Asari back to Nigeria immediately after his release.
According to Sahara Reporters, Dokubo-Asari was released after President Jonathan personally intervened on his behalf with President Yayi Boni of Benin Republic.
Festus Keyamo, Dokubo-Asari's Lawyer confirmed his release. A presidential jet was sent to transport Dokubo-Asari back to Nigeria immediately after his release.
ANAMBRA ELECTION: APC to stage protect at INEC headquater
The leadership of All Progressives Congress (APC) is to stage a peaceful
procession to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)
headquarters in Abuja today to register its disapproval of the
Commission’s “string of failures” in the conduct of recent elections.
The party cited the Delta Central Senatorial District by-election and the ‘inconclusive’ November 16 Anambra State governorship election to buttress its position on INEC’s shortcomings.
source: Leadership newspaper
The party cited the Delta Central Senatorial District by-election and the ‘inconclusive’ November 16 Anambra State governorship election to buttress its position on INEC’s shortcomings.
source: Leadership newspaper
Wednesday, November 27, 2013
University student to die by hanging for armed robbery.
A Makurdi High Court, on Tuesday, sentenced a 100-level sociology student of Benue State University, Jacob Atongo, to death by hanging for armed robbery. In his judgment, Justice Adam Onum, held that he was satisfied with the confession of the accused to the charges and therefore, found him guilty.
Onum sentenced the accused to death by hanging, insisting that the sentence prescribed under the law for the offence must be followed.
Atongo conspired with two others and robbed Stephen Akuma, and several others at gun point on June 26, 2012.
The convict and his accomplices robbed Akuma of his Toyota Camry car with registration number Benue AID 39 AA and other victims of valuables, including various sums of money.
He also attacked Judges' Quarters, Makurdi on July 3, 2012 and robbed no fewer than 15 people, dispossessing them of various items and money at gun point.
The offences contravened the Robbery and Firearms Laws.
During the proceedings, the accused pleaded not guilty to the charges and testified for himself along with one witness called by his counsel.
In statements, according to the prosecution, the convict confessed to the commission of the offences.
But counsel to the accused, Mr E.Z. Agbakor, argued that the prosecution failed to prove the case against his client beyond all reasonable doubt.
Agbakor told the court that the accused did not make the statement tendered in court voluntarily, insisting his client was tortured and forced to confess to the offences.
Onum sentenced the accused to death by hanging, insisting that the sentence prescribed under the law for the offence must be followed.
Atongo conspired with two others and robbed Stephen Akuma, and several others at gun point on June 26, 2012.
The convict and his accomplices robbed Akuma of his Toyota Camry car with registration number Benue AID 39 AA and other victims of valuables, including various sums of money.
He also attacked Judges' Quarters, Makurdi on July 3, 2012 and robbed no fewer than 15 people, dispossessing them of various items and money at gun point.
The offences contravened the Robbery and Firearms Laws.
During the proceedings, the accused pleaded not guilty to the charges and testified for himself along with one witness called by his counsel.
In statements, according to the prosecution, the convict confessed to the commission of the offences.
But counsel to the accused, Mr E.Z. Agbakor, argued that the prosecution failed to prove the case against his client beyond all reasonable doubt.
Agbakor told the court that the accused did not make the statement tendered in court voluntarily, insisting his client was tortured and forced to confess to the offences.
University student to die by hanging for armed robbery.
A Makurdi High Court, on Tuesday, sentenced a 100-level sociology student of Benue State University, Jacob Atongo, to death by hanging for armed robbery. In his judgment, Justice Adam Onum, held that he was satisfied with the confession of the accused to the charges and therefore, found him guilty.
Onum sentenced the accused to death by hanging, insisting that the sentence prescribed under the law for the offence must be followed.
Atongo conspired with two others and robbed Stephen Akuma, and several others at gun point on June 26, 2012.
The convict and his accomplices robbed Akuma of his Toyota Camry car with registration number Benue AID 39 AA and other victims of valuables, including various sums of money.
He also attacked Judges' Quarters, Makurdi on July 3, 2012 and robbed no fewer than 15 people, dispossessing them of various items and money at gun point.
The offences contravened the Robbery and Firearms Laws.
During the proceedings, the accused pleaded not guilty to the charges and testified for himself along with one witness called by his counsel.
In statements, according to the prosecution, the convict confessed to the commission of the offences.
But counsel to the accused, Mr E.Z. Agbakor, argued that the prosecution failed to prove the case against his client beyond all reasonable doubt.
Agbakor told the court that the accused did not make the statement tendered in court voluntarily, insisting his client was tortured and forced to confess to the offences.
Onum sentenced the accused to death by hanging, insisting that the sentence prescribed under the law for the offence must be followed.
Atongo conspired with two others and robbed Stephen Akuma, and several others at gun point on June 26, 2012.
The convict and his accomplices robbed Akuma of his Toyota Camry car with registration number Benue AID 39 AA and other victims of valuables, including various sums of money.
He also attacked Judges' Quarters, Makurdi on July 3, 2012 and robbed no fewer than 15 people, dispossessing them of various items and money at gun point.
The offences contravened the Robbery and Firearms Laws.
During the proceedings, the accused pleaded not guilty to the charges and testified for himself along with one witness called by his counsel.
In statements, according to the prosecution, the convict confessed to the commission of the offences.
But counsel to the accused, Mr E.Z. Agbakor, argued that the prosecution failed to prove the case against his client beyond all reasonable doubt.
Agbakor told the court that the accused did not make the statement tendered in court voluntarily, insisting his client was tortured and forced to confess to the offences.
Polymer Naira notes would be reverted to paper notes come 2014 - CBN
The Central Bank of Nigeria has said it will start printing the naira in paper notes in 2014.
It signed a deal in 2006 with Australia’s Securency International to print lower more-circulated units of the naira in polymer, while higher denominations were kept in paper form. But six years after and following allegations that the manufacturer had bribed foreign officials to secure contracts, including in Nigeria, the CBN said it was being forced to reverse the policy.
A report by AFP on Tuesday quoted the spokesman for the CBN, Mr. Ugochukwu Okoroafor, as saying, “Polymer has been on a test run since 2007. This explains why we did not go the whole hog by printing all the notes in polymer. “We only used polymer for N5, N10, N20 and N50, while N100, N200, N500 and N1,000 are in paper form. We soon discovered that the [polymer] notes easily fade out because of our peculiar hot climate in Nigeria… making them look tattered when in use over time.” Earlier experiments indicated that the polymer-based notes, which are in use in 23 countries around the world, including Australia, could last longer than traditional cotton-paper notes. But the CBN said there had been a public outcry about the poorer quality of some of the new currency in circulation.
Securency International was reported to have supplied 1.9 billion of its guardian brand polymer-based notes to Nigeria between 2006 and 2008. In the wake of the bribery claims, the Reserve Bank of Australia sold its 50 per cent stake in the firm. Innovia Security, which bought out Securency International earlier this year, said it did not comment on clients or their business but added that a number of countries with hot and humid climates used their product. “We have had no issues of premature ink wear or colour fading in these markets,” a spokesperson said in an e-mailed statement. The report said Nigeria, with a predominantly cash-based economy, was looking to increase people’s use of electronic payment methods such as credit cards, online trading and introducing cash-point machines in a bid to try to reduce the amount individuals could carry around. However, there are concerns that switching back to paper notes is a sign of a lack of a coherent policy. “My concern is that Nigeria is fond of policy somersaults,” said a former banker, Mr. Moruf Akamo. He also said, “What becomes of the initial investment in the polymer technology, considering that the notes have been in circulation for only six years after their adoption in 2007?” Akamo said the CBN should have done more research to ascertain the feasibility of polymer notes before starting the project. “Why is Nigeria going back and forth? It’s time our policy makers got their acts together and do what is right for this country,” he said. A treasury manager at a commercial bank in Lagos, Mr. Yemi Adegbola, advised the central bank against spending money to print paper notes, which could degrade quickly with daily handling and the tropical climate. “The trend worldwide is to embrace polymer. I wonder why Nigeria’s case is different?” he added, claiming that polymer was less susceptible to forgery. “It’s not easy to fake polymer notes like paper notes,” he said.
It signed a deal in 2006 with Australia’s Securency International to print lower more-circulated units of the naira in polymer, while higher denominations were kept in paper form. But six years after and following allegations that the manufacturer had bribed foreign officials to secure contracts, including in Nigeria, the CBN said it was being forced to reverse the policy.
A report by AFP on Tuesday quoted the spokesman for the CBN, Mr. Ugochukwu Okoroafor, as saying, “Polymer has been on a test run since 2007. This explains why we did not go the whole hog by printing all the notes in polymer. “We only used polymer for N5, N10, N20 and N50, while N100, N200, N500 and N1,000 are in paper form. We soon discovered that the [polymer] notes easily fade out because of our peculiar hot climate in Nigeria… making them look tattered when in use over time.” Earlier experiments indicated that the polymer-based notes, which are in use in 23 countries around the world, including Australia, could last longer than traditional cotton-paper notes. But the CBN said there had been a public outcry about the poorer quality of some of the new currency in circulation.
Securency International was reported to have supplied 1.9 billion of its guardian brand polymer-based notes to Nigeria between 2006 and 2008. In the wake of the bribery claims, the Reserve Bank of Australia sold its 50 per cent stake in the firm. Innovia Security, which bought out Securency International earlier this year, said it did not comment on clients or their business but added that a number of countries with hot and humid climates used their product. “We have had no issues of premature ink wear or colour fading in these markets,” a spokesperson said in an e-mailed statement. The report said Nigeria, with a predominantly cash-based economy, was looking to increase people’s use of electronic payment methods such as credit cards, online trading and introducing cash-point machines in a bid to try to reduce the amount individuals could carry around. However, there are concerns that switching back to paper notes is a sign of a lack of a coherent policy. “My concern is that Nigeria is fond of policy somersaults,” said a former banker, Mr. Moruf Akamo. He also said, “What becomes of the initial investment in the polymer technology, considering that the notes have been in circulation for only six years after their adoption in 2007?” Akamo said the CBN should have done more research to ascertain the feasibility of polymer notes before starting the project. “Why is Nigeria going back and forth? It’s time our policy makers got their acts together and do what is right for this country,” he said. A treasury manager at a commercial bank in Lagos, Mr. Yemi Adegbola, advised the central bank against spending money to print paper notes, which could degrade quickly with daily handling and the tropical climate. “The trend worldwide is to embrace polymer. I wonder why Nigeria’s case is different?” he added, claiming that polymer was less susceptible to forgery. “It’s not easy to fake polymer notes like paper notes,” he said.
Mysterious Healing pool appeared in Enugu
Healing water discovered last week in Nachi, Oji in Enugu State . The healing river was discovered in Nachi Oji River in Enugu state. A mystery to the people of Nachi for decade,. nick named the “Pool of Bethsaida” and appears every 20 years, as confirmed by the indigenes, this year the pool was discovered by fulani herdsmen who were on their way to feed their cattle, according to them, they passed the spot where the water usually came from and there wasn’t any water, but on their way back they discovered the whole place has been covered with water. . According to the oldest man in the community, the water appears every 20 or 30 years, they first saw it in 1971. He also confirmed that various diseases and ailmenst have been cured at the pool. Most people who visited the area gave testimonies on how they received healing from the water. The water stays for 1 to 2 weeks then dries up, as at today(yesterday) the water is 2 week s old, but is said to be visibly decreasing. . Will a visit to the site make you a believer of miracles and that our God is a living God?
Nigeria's U-17 Star,Iheanacho to sign deal with Manchester city
Wonderkid Kelechi Iheanacho will sign a deal with Manchester City, according to the player's father.
Iheanacho was named the best player at November's Under-17s World Cup after scoring six goals, including one in the final, as the Golden Eaglets triumphed in the United Arab Emirates. He has since been linked with moves to Porto and Chelsea but his father, James, said that the Etihad Stadium will be his boys' next destination. "As I am talking to you, I have chosen that Kelechi is going to Manchester United," he told Super Sport's 'Monday Night Football', before appearing to correct himself by saying: "I have told you that he is going to Manchester City." Iheanacho senior later said that the player's family made a joint decision on where he would go in a meeting on Monday night. "We prayed [on Monday] and, after due consultations with family members, we came up with Manchester City, believing he has a future there," he explained. "That is where he will be uplifted." The young striker had been declared missing by his father on Friday after he had left his home in Owerri without alerting his family but returned early on Monday morning before a decision on his future was made. James has been integral in his son's fledgling career,
Iheanacho was named the best player at November's Under-17s World Cup after scoring six goals, including one in the final, as the Golden Eaglets triumphed in the United Arab Emirates. He has since been linked with moves to Porto and Chelsea but his father, James, said that the Etihad Stadium will be his boys' next destination. "As I am talking to you, I have chosen that Kelechi is going to Manchester United," he told Super Sport's 'Monday Night Football', before appearing to correct himself by saying: "I have told you that he is going to Manchester City." Iheanacho senior later said that the player's family made a joint decision on where he would go in a meeting on Monday night. "We prayed [on Monday] and, after due consultations with family members, we came up with Manchester City, believing he has a future there," he explained. "That is where he will be uplifted." The young striker had been declared missing by his father on Friday after he had left his home in Owerri without alerting his family but returned early on Monday morning before a decision on his future was made. James has been integral in his son's fledgling career,
Shocking News: Goat gives birth to a baby monster in Ekiti
Click on the link below for the picz:
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9UcBjEV3pA3-jvKoinl0OQB6qmqH0mAkOhzIoKbO_buOhHryxf4Mkfv5UxP7s5xqGKDo5iY1H7HJttgXArIu0zfI4LL40hAb1GdHaPlX6Yw5tYB_l2JcuAPM19lfq6m8CiggY0GmrNmFa/s1600/goat human baby nigeria.jpg
An unusual birth was witnessed yesterday in a remote city inEkiti State. In Ogotun Ekiti, a small town located inside the Ekiti SW LGA, residents were thrown into chaos after a viral story of a goat that gave birth to a human-likebaby.
The strange occurrence happened in Lori Oke village, a remote area located 10 km fromOgotun town. Sunday Ogunmeji, the spokesperson for the community told NAN that a pastor, Daniel Odedele helped in delivering the goat of the strange creature. “After watching the goat labour for several hours, the pastor took pity on it and courageously pulled the baby out, only for it to turn out to be human-like. The `baby’ had all the features of a human being such as human face, head, hair, female genitals, two legs and two arms with hoofs. “However, the human-like baby died at about noon as a result of lack of care as the crowd merely trooped there to watch rather than to attempt to save its life,’’Ogunmeji said.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, an Okada rider who witnessed the strange birth said the mother goat immediately ran away on sighting the strange human-likebaby she delivered. He said the area residents were thrown into confusion on hearing the news. Local security agents were alerted and after 2 hours on the run, the mother goat was recaptured in the bush.
wonders would and can never end.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9UcBjEV3pA3-jvKoinl0OQB6qmqH0mAkOhzIoKbO_buOhHryxf4Mkfv5UxP7s5xqGKDo5iY1H7HJttgXArIu0zfI4LL40hAb1GdHaPlX6Yw5tYB_l2JcuAPM19lfq6m8CiggY0GmrNmFa/s1600/goat human baby nigeria.jpg
An unusual birth was witnessed yesterday in a remote city inEkiti State. In Ogotun Ekiti, a small town located inside the Ekiti SW LGA, residents were thrown into chaos after a viral story of a goat that gave birth to a human-likebaby.
The strange occurrence happened in Lori Oke village, a remote area located 10 km fromOgotun town. Sunday Ogunmeji, the spokesperson for the community told NAN that a pastor, Daniel Odedele helped in delivering the goat of the strange creature. “After watching the goat labour for several hours, the pastor took pity on it and courageously pulled the baby out, only for it to turn out to be human-like. The `baby’ had all the features of a human being such as human face, head, hair, female genitals, two legs and two arms with hoofs. “However, the human-like baby died at about noon as a result of lack of care as the crowd merely trooped there to watch rather than to attempt to save its life,’’Ogunmeji said.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, an Okada rider who witnessed the strange birth said the mother goat immediately ran away on sighting the strange human-likebaby she delivered. He said the area residents were thrown into confusion on hearing the news. Local security agents were alerted and after 2 hours on the run, the mother goat was recaptured in the bush.
wonders would and can never end.
Tuesday, November 26, 2013
Breaking news: Asari-Dokubo Arrested in Cotonou,Benin Republic
According to SaharaReporters:
Ex-Niger Delta militant, Mujahid Asari-Dokubo, has been arrested in Cotonou, Capital of Benin Republic
The leader of the Niger Delta People’s Volunteer Force, Alhaji Mujahid Dokubo-Asari, was today arrested in Cotonou, Benin Republic.
A statement by his lawyer, Festus Keyamo, said Dokubo was picked up by the police between 1:00pm and 2:00pm around the Lubeleyi roundabout, and taken to an unknown destination.
Ex-Niger Delta militant, Mujahid Asari-Dokubo, has been arrested in Cotonou, Capital of Benin Republic
The leader of the Niger Delta People’s Volunteer Force, Alhaji Mujahid Dokubo-Asari, was today arrested in Cotonou, Benin Republic.
A statement by his lawyer, Festus Keyamo, said Dokubo was picked up by the police between 1:00pm and 2:00pm around the Lubeleyi roundabout, and taken to an unknown destination.
Breaking news: Asari-Dokubo Arrested in Cotonou,Benin Republic
According to SaharaReporters:
Ex-Niger Delta militant, Mujahid Asari-Dokubo, has been arrested in Cotonou, Capital of Benin Republic
The leader of the Niger Delta People’s Volunteer Force, Alhaji Mujahid Dokubo-Asari, was today arrested in Cotonou, Benin Republic.
A statement by his lawyer, Festus Keyamo, said Dokubo was picked up by the police between 1:00pm and 2:00pm around the Lubeleyi roundabout, and taken to an unknown destination.
Ex-Niger Delta militant, Mujahid Asari-Dokubo, has been arrested in Cotonou, Capital of Benin Republic
The leader of the Niger Delta People’s Volunteer Force, Alhaji Mujahid Dokubo-Asari, was today arrested in Cotonou, Benin Republic.
A statement by his lawyer, Festus Keyamo, said Dokubo was picked up by the police between 1:00pm and 2:00pm around the Lubeleyi roundabout, and taken to an unknown destination.
Breaking news: G7 Governors merges with APC
The G-7 governors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have moved on by joining the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC).
Some of the faces at the merger includes Ogbonaya Onu, nPDP chairman, Kawu Baraje, Senator Bukola Saraki, Governor Rotimi Amaechi, former Lagos Governor, Bola Tinubu, chair of the APC, Chief Bisi Akande,
The seven aggrieved governors of the People’s Democratic Party reached this decision in a meeting held last night at the Kano State governors’ lodge in Abuja. The meeting ended at about 12.30am
The seven governors joining the APC are Rabiu Kwankwaso (Kano), Aliyu Wamakko (Sokoto), Muazu Aliyu (Niger), Murtala Nyako (Adamawa), Abdulfatah Ahmed (Kwara) and Rotimi Amaechi (Rivers) and Sule Lamido (Jigawa State).
More details soon
Source: vanguard
Some of the faces at the merger includes Ogbonaya Onu, nPDP chairman, Kawu Baraje, Senator Bukola Saraki, Governor Rotimi Amaechi, former Lagos Governor, Bola Tinubu, chair of the APC, Chief Bisi Akande,
The seven aggrieved governors of the People’s Democratic Party reached this decision in a meeting held last night at the Kano State governors’ lodge in Abuja. The meeting ended at about 12.30am
The seven governors joining the APC are Rabiu Kwankwaso (Kano), Aliyu Wamakko (Sokoto), Muazu Aliyu (Niger), Murtala Nyako (Adamawa), Abdulfatah Ahmed (Kwara) and Rotimi Amaechi (Rivers) and Sule Lamido (Jigawa State).
More details soon
Source: vanguard
Terrorists planned to attack Plateau state during the Yuletide - JANG
Plateau State Governor, Mr. Jonah Jang, has raised the alarm over
alleged plans by terrorists to attack some parts of the state during the
Christmas and New Year celebrations.
The governor, who spoke in Jos at the 2013 harvest and thanksgiving service of the COCIN Headquarters Church, said security reports available to him indicated that the planned attack could be massive if not checked. It was gathered that the security scare might have informed the cancellation of the scheduled January 30, 2014 local government election in Jos North and Wase local government areas. While Jos North is the theatre of the communal strife in the northern zone, Wase, in the southern zone of the state, has been the centre of the ethnic war between the indigenous Taroh community and the Hausa/Fulani pastoralists.
He regretted that despite the efforts to restore permanent peace in the state, there were people who were bent on truncating the peace moves. Jang called on the people of the state to protect the hard-earned peace the state had been experiencing in the last couple of months, stressing that the people as well as security outfits must be on the watch for strange faces and report same to the security. The governor said, “For a long time, we have enjoyed peace on the Plateau but recent security reports available to the government point to the fact that some terrorists want to take the advantage of this Christmas to attack Plateau.
But we must be watchful; we must not go to sleep because keeping peace is not the job of government alone. We must report suspicious characters in our midst and that’s the only way we can defeat them. “We have to be watchful at all times as the enemies of the state will stop at nothing but to pull down the foundation that has been laid, but I am very optimistic that God will vindicate the state.
Amen to that......
The governor, who spoke in Jos at the 2013 harvest and thanksgiving service of the COCIN Headquarters Church, said security reports available to him indicated that the planned attack could be massive if not checked. It was gathered that the security scare might have informed the cancellation of the scheduled January 30, 2014 local government election in Jos North and Wase local government areas. While Jos North is the theatre of the communal strife in the northern zone, Wase, in the southern zone of the state, has been the centre of the ethnic war between the indigenous Taroh community and the Hausa/Fulani pastoralists.
He regretted that despite the efforts to restore permanent peace in the state, there were people who were bent on truncating the peace moves. Jang called on the people of the state to protect the hard-earned peace the state had been experiencing in the last couple of months, stressing that the people as well as security outfits must be on the watch for strange faces and report same to the security. The governor said, “For a long time, we have enjoyed peace on the Plateau but recent security reports available to the government point to the fact that some terrorists want to take the advantage of this Christmas to attack Plateau.
But we must be watchful; we must not go to sleep because keeping peace is not the job of government alone. We must report suspicious characters in our midst and that’s the only way we can defeat them. “We have to be watchful at all times as the enemies of the state will stop at nothing but to pull down the foundation that has been laid, but I am very optimistic that God will vindicate the state.
Amen to that......
ASUU: FG rejects ASUU's new conditions
The Federal Government, on Monday, condemned the new conditions which Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, insists must be met before the five-month old strike could be called off.
The three conditions were payment of four months salaries, which accumulated during the period of the strike; immediate implementation of the N1.2 trillion offered by the government to public universities, starting with the release of N100 billion this year and the balance of N1.1 trillion to be spread over five years from 2014.
he union also demanded that the salary arrears must not be paid in piecemeal.
These were some of the resolutions reached by members of the National Executive Council, NEC, of the union that met in Kano on Friday.
Supervising Minister of Education, Nyesom Wike, condemned the new conditions but assured that he would present them before President Goodluck Jonathan.
EBSU breaks ranks, as they resumes today
Meanwhile, the management of Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki, EBSU, on monday ordered lecturers and students of the institution to return to classes following the inability of ASUU to end its strike.
A statement by the Registrar of the institution, Mr. Sam Egwu, stressed that the institution had resolved to resume academic activities regardless of the ASUU-FG dispute, adding that academic activities would resume in all the campuses of the institution from today, Tuesday, November 26.
EBSU chapter of ASUU however, said that lecturers would not return to classes until their demands were met in line with the position of its national body.
Heeeee....the way schools are beginning to pull out of the ASUU strike, ASUU should just call off the strike ,while they continue negotiation with FG
Principal beaten to pulp for refusing pupil to wear Hijab
The new education policy in Osun State claimed its first casualty on Monday as fierce-looking Muslim youths invaded the Baptist High School, Ejigbo, and beat up the students and teachers.
The principal of the school, Mr. Layi Oguntola, was thoroughly beaten and injured. Oguntola, as of the time of this report, was said to be receiving treatment at the Baptist Medical Centre, Ejigbo.
The attackers said they came because the school authorities stopped some Muslim pupils from wearing the hijab. The hijab is a scarf that covers the head and chest, specially worn by a Muslim female. According to a news correspondent, the attackers stormed the school while the students were already seated in their classrooms. They were said to have headed straight for the Principal’s Office and asked Oguntola to apologise for sending the hijab-wearing students away from school but the principal refused to do so.
There have been protests when the Governor Rauf Aregbesola administration recently introduced a new education policy, which entails merger and reclassification of schools in the state. The Baptist conference specifically said it would not allow hijab-wearing students in its schools. On Monday, the attacked students and teachers were said to have run for refuge at the palace of the Ogiyan of Ejigbo, Oba Omowonuola Oyesosin.
The monarch was also said to have been instrumental to the rescue of the wounded principal from the attackers, made up of mostly youths. The attack forced the Baptist High School and other schools in the town to close abruptly for the day as police were deployed in the town to forestall reprisal. Some Muslim students of the school were said to have been turned back last week for wearing hijab on their uniforms and their parents were said to have reported the case to members of an Islamic sect in the town.
Tension started building in the town following the attack and the speculations that the attackers were also planning to set ablaze the United Baptist Church, close to the school. Some Christian youths were also said to have mobilised to defend the church. The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Mrs. Folasade Odoro, when contacted, said she would find out the details of the incident .
Commissioner for Information, Mr. Sunday Akere, confirmed the incident, which he described as an unfortunate one. He appealed to the people of the state to shun violence, saying the state government in collaboration with security agencies would investigate and get to the root of the matter. He said, “It is unfortunate that this happened at a time when we are already achieving peace in the area of schools reclassification. “We are calling on all religious leaders and stakeholders to refrain from taking steps which could lead to the breakdown of law and order.
......Hmmmm
The principal of the school, Mr. Layi Oguntola, was thoroughly beaten and injured. Oguntola, as of the time of this report, was said to be receiving treatment at the Baptist Medical Centre, Ejigbo.
The attackers said they came because the school authorities stopped some Muslim pupils from wearing the hijab. The hijab is a scarf that covers the head and chest, specially worn by a Muslim female. According to a news correspondent, the attackers stormed the school while the students were already seated in their classrooms. They were said to have headed straight for the Principal’s Office and asked Oguntola to apologise for sending the hijab-wearing students away from school but the principal refused to do so.
There have been protests when the Governor Rauf Aregbesola administration recently introduced a new education policy, which entails merger and reclassification of schools in the state. The Baptist conference specifically said it would not allow hijab-wearing students in its schools. On Monday, the attacked students and teachers were said to have run for refuge at the palace of the Ogiyan of Ejigbo, Oba Omowonuola Oyesosin.
The monarch was also said to have been instrumental to the rescue of the wounded principal from the attackers, made up of mostly youths. The attack forced the Baptist High School and other schools in the town to close abruptly for the day as police were deployed in the town to forestall reprisal. Some Muslim students of the school were said to have been turned back last week for wearing hijab on their uniforms and their parents were said to have reported the case to members of an Islamic sect in the town.
Tension started building in the town following the attack and the speculations that the attackers were also planning to set ablaze the United Baptist Church, close to the school. Some Christian youths were also said to have mobilised to defend the church. The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Mrs. Folasade Odoro, when contacted, said she would find out the details of the incident .
Commissioner for Information, Mr. Sunday Akere, confirmed the incident, which he described as an unfortunate one. He appealed to the people of the state to shun violence, saying the state government in collaboration with security agencies would investigate and get to the root of the matter. He said, “It is unfortunate that this happened at a time when we are already achieving peace in the area of schools reclassification. “We are calling on all religious leaders and stakeholders to refrain from taking steps which could lead to the breakdown of law and order.
......Hmmmm
Sokoto plans mass wedding for 250 widows, widowers
The Sokoto State Government said on Sunday that it would give out in a mass wedding, 250 widows and widowers across the state to give them a new lease of life. Alhaji Zubairu Goronyo, the state
Commissioner for Social Development, who announced this at the screening of the beneficiaries in Sokoto, said that the venture would gulp N30 million.
According to him, a date will soon be fixed for the exercise.
A correspondent of the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, who witnessed the screening that was done to establish the health status of the beneficiaries, reported that it was handled by various committees.
Alhaji Zubairu said that beds, mattresses, sets of chairs, curtains and two sets of female wrappers would be given to each of the 125 brides.
He said that similarly, the grooms would be given two sets of guinea brocade, N20,000 each as dowry to formalise the marriage agreement, and another N20,000 each to boost their businesses.
The commissioner said that the state governor, Alhaji Aliyu Wamakko, and the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa'ad Abubakar, would serve as guardians to the brides and grooms at the ceremony.
'The exercise is going to be on a quarterly basis, so as to enable more potential brides and grooms to benefit," he said.
Trainee pilots escapes crash in Ilorin
Three crew members on board a training aircraft of International
Aviation College, Ilorin, escaped death as the plane crashed during a
routine exercise. The minor incident occurred at about 11.33 a.m.on Monday within the vicinity of Ilorin International Airport.
The college's Acting Rector, Capt. Nuhu Abdulkareem, who announced the plane crash at a press conference in Ilorin, said it was the first recorded incident since its inception.
Abdulkareem said the three crew members of the single engine Diamond aircraft with registration number 5N-BRD were later taken to the college's clinic for proper check-up and were certified fit.
He said the college had established contact with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and the Accident Investigation Bureau, statutory
bodies responsible for regulating aviation safety and investigating incidents.
He said the management of the college was awaiting the arrival of the officials of both agencies from Abuja to investigate the incident.
Also the Kwara Government has concluded arrangement for the graduation of eight students from the International Aviation College, IIorin.
Mr Leke Ogungbe, the Deputy Chief of Staff, Government House, IIorin , disclosed this to newsmen on Moday in Ilorin.
Ogungbe said the convocation will hold on Dec. 5, adding that the first batch of 12 students graduated from the institution last year.
He said the college was set up to address the shortage of manpower in the nation's aviation industry.
The institution, he added, was mandated to provide assistance to the sector in the area of manpower.
Ogungbe said the state government would continue to create the enabling environment for investors, and called on Nigerians to be patriotic in their dealings to ensure rapid development.
The college's Acting Rector, Capt. Nuhu Abdulkareem, who announced the plane crash at a press conference in Ilorin, said it was the first recorded incident since its inception.
Abdulkareem said the three crew members of the single engine Diamond aircraft with registration number 5N-BRD were later taken to the college's clinic for proper check-up and were certified fit.
He said the college had established contact with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and the Accident Investigation Bureau, statutory
bodies responsible for regulating aviation safety and investigating incidents.
He said the management of the college was awaiting the arrival of the officials of both agencies from Abuja to investigate the incident.
Also the Kwara Government has concluded arrangement for the graduation of eight students from the International Aviation College, IIorin.
Mr Leke Ogungbe, the Deputy Chief of Staff, Government House, IIorin , disclosed this to newsmen on Moday in Ilorin.
Ogungbe said the convocation will hold on Dec. 5, adding that the first batch of 12 students graduated from the institution last year.
He said the college was set up to address the shortage of manpower in the nation's aviation industry.
The institution, he added, was mandated to provide assistance to the sector in the area of manpower.
Ogungbe said the state government would continue to create the enabling environment for investors, and called on Nigerians to be patriotic in their dealings to ensure rapid development.
IS THE LIFE OF THE AVIATION MINISTER, STELLA ODUAH UNDER THREAT???
The Nigerian Police Command on Monday in Abuja confirmed that gunmen fired shots at the car of the Minister of Aviation, Ms Stella Oduah.
The spokesperson of the command, DSP Altine Daniel, said the incident occurred at about 10 p.m. on Friday in Abuja. She added that the minister was not in the car when the incident took place. Daniel, however, said that the incident was reported to the police on Monday at about 5:30 p.m. According to her, some metal objects were found in the vehicle which does not look like the conventional bullet. “The objects will be subjected to ballistic test,” she said. According to her, investigation into the incident has begun. Also, confirming the shooting, Special Adviser to the minister, Mr Joe Obi, said that the attack took place at the Ministers’ Hill, Maitama in the FCT.
“Fortunately, the minister was not in the car at the time the attack took place. “An official report has been made to the police and the police are currently investigating it, ” Obi said. It can be recalled that Ms Stella Oduah, remains under immense pressure over her role in the purchase of two N255m luxury cars with many Nigerians calling for her sack and prosecution. The minister in her defense cited "Protection" as the basis for acquiring the N225m bullet-proof cars, and not for luxury
However many Nigerians think that this was stage-managed,do you think so????
The spokesperson of the command, DSP Altine Daniel, said the incident occurred at about 10 p.m. on Friday in Abuja. She added that the minister was not in the car when the incident took place. Daniel, however, said that the incident was reported to the police on Monday at about 5:30 p.m. According to her, some metal objects were found in the vehicle which does not look like the conventional bullet. “The objects will be subjected to ballistic test,” she said. According to her, investigation into the incident has begun. Also, confirming the shooting, Special Adviser to the minister, Mr Joe Obi, said that the attack took place at the Ministers’ Hill, Maitama in the FCT.
“Fortunately, the minister was not in the car at the time the attack took place. “An official report has been made to the police and the police are currently investigating it, ” Obi said. It can be recalled that Ms Stella Oduah, remains under immense pressure over her role in the purchase of two N255m luxury cars with many Nigerians calling for her sack and prosecution. The minister in her defense cited "Protection" as the basis for acquiring the N225m bullet-proof cars, and not for luxury
However many Nigerians think that this was stage-managed,do you think so????
Monday, November 25, 2013
Anambra Election: INEC releases supplementry election polling units amidst threats
Latest report reaching us reveals that the Independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC) has finally released supplementary election polling units which has been scheduled for November 30th, 2013.
The supplementary election is to hold at Polling Units where the election was cancelled due to irregularities, INEC insisted against all threats by the governorship candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (Tony Nwoye); Labour Party (Ifeanyi Ubah) and the All Progressive Congress (Chris Ngige) that they would not participate in the supplementary election.
The supplementary election is to hold at Polling Units where the election was cancelled due to irregularities, INEC insisted against all threats by the governorship candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (Tony Nwoye); Labour Party (Ifeanyi Ubah) and the All Progressive Congress (Chris Ngige) that they would not participate in the supplementary election.
DIARY OF BLOGGER. part 1
Blogging has been something that has been on my mind for the past two years, couldn’t start because I was scared and I thought that starting a blog requires a huge sum of money – because I have to contract a web developer to create the blog site for me considering I was still unemployed and cashless at that moment.
So my younger brother told me about the blogger.com where you can open a blog for free of and is been hosted by blogger so I don’t need to create my own site at least for a start. So now I know its free to own a blog, but there came another fear what do I write, how do I get my audience? and all other things that comes with the blogging business, and I was like there are a lot of bloggers how do I stand out in the multitudes of bloggers out there? With all these in mind, I gave up!!!! Like for real
…….fast forward to one year later, I had a job at least something to manage, not that the job was paying well because the salary get finished even before I receive it and I was almost doing nothing at work, I would just sit with my BB and ping all through the day(smh) until when there is work to do, simply put I was just sitting my life away and no better job was coming my way, inspite of submitting CVs to a million and one public and private firms, it was so frustrating. But then I needed something to hold body and soul, I needed to do something to earn so I would augment the peanuts I was earning as salary. Here is another one, I wanted something I could start with 0 capital, not that I even have any with anyway, I thought of several business but none was workable because they all require a lot of time and I can’t resign from my job despite the fact I was earning peanuts but I still needed “the peanut” LOL, could not let it go…. Confused right???? I was damn confused.
I needed something I could do with only my BIS and BB, and the blogging thing came to mind, I love to write at least, and also good with the motivational thing, there and then I challenged myself to open a blog and that was how ‘’ RITA’S BLOG” was born, it birthed in February a day after Nigeria won the ‘’Africa’s Cup Of Nation, it gave me the nudge I needed and then I started with a congratulatory post in honor of the super eagles and then introducing my blog and its contents, YEAH!!!!!
At this juncture I must appreciate my friends, namely : Uche Helen of Helen Fashion and Beauty in Abuja and my reliable friend and brother Ahmed ; for all their suggestions, encouragement , and support. all these really helped me immensely in a way you guys would never imagined. THANK YOU SWEETHEARTS. you guys rock***KISSKISS***
When I started this blog, despite it was a dream come through. I thought it was the easiest and quickest way to make money, who says there is an easy way to it?? but as days turn to weeks and then months…… my focus have kinda shifted to been passionate about blogging, simply put I now love what am doing and I don’t really care if I get clicks or get popular. But it gives me joy and I have this sense of fulfillment when I update my blog and people gets to read it and commend me for a job well done. E no easy, I swear.
The journey thus far has not been an easy one, I learnt everything on my own considering that so called renowned bloggers refused to help, even when I wrote to them asking them to put me through the route of blogging, guess they were busy or something but then its all good. Thank God for Google and other helpful blogs, though I have not learnt everything there is to blogging but I know I would get there………. Eventually!!!
Lesson 1: whatever you want to do, just get on with it…………….. yea its not usually easy at first, but with time you would get there. A saying goes thus “ if you can think it, you can do it” , remember ideas rule the world. Make sure you are passionate and love what you are doing…………….passion is like a fuel, the energy that drives you. Never give up until you get there. Persistence pays!!!!!
Watch out for the second series
DIARY OF BLOGGER. part 1
Blogging has been something that has been on my mind for the past two years, couldn’t start because I was scared and I thought that starting a blog requires a huge sum of money – because I have to contract a web developer to create the blog site for me considering I was still unemployed and cashless at that moment.
So my younger brother told me about the blogger.com where you can open a blog for free of and is been hosted by blogger so I don’t need to create my own site at least for a start. So now I know its free to own a blog, but there came another fear what do I write, how do I get my audience? and all other things that comes with the blogging business, and I was like there are a lot of bloggers how do I stand out in the multitudes of bloggers out there? With all these in mind, I gave up!!!! Like for real
…….fast forward to one year later, I had a job at least something to manage, not that the job was paying well because the salary get finished even before I receive it and I was almost doing nothing at work, I would just sit with my BB and ping all through the day(smh) until when there is work to do, simply put I was just sitting my life away and no better job was coming my way, inspite of submitting CVs to a million and one public and private firms, it was so frustrating. But then I needed something to hold body and soul, I needed to do something to earn so I would augment the peanuts I was earning as salary. Here is another one, I wanted something I could start with 0 capital, not that I even have any with anyway, I thought of several business but none was workable because they all require a lot of time and I can’t resign from my job despite the fact I was earning peanuts but I still needed “the peanut” LOL, could not let it go…. Confused right???? I was damn confused.
I needed something I could do with only my BIS and BB, and the blogging thing came to mind, I love to write at least, and also good with the motivational thing, there and then I challenged myself to open a blog and that was how ‘’ RITA’S BLOG” was born, it birthed in February a day after Nigeria won the ‘’Africa’s Cup Of Nation, it gave me the nudge I needed and then I started with a congratulatory post in honor of the super eagles and then introducing my blog and its contents, YEAH!!!!!
At this juncture I must appreciate my friends, namely : Uche Helen of Helen Fashion and Beauty in Abuja and my reliable friend and brother Ahmed ; for all their suggestions, encouragement , and support. all these really helped me immensely in a way you guys would never imagined. THANK YOU SWEETHEARTS. you guys rock***KISSKISS***
When I started this blog, despite it was a dream come through. I thought it was the easiest and quickest way to make money, who says there is an easy way to it?? but as days turn to weeks and then months…… my focus have kinda shifted to been passionate about blogging, simply put I now love what am doing and I don’t really care if I get clicks or get popular. But it gives me joy and I have this sense of fulfillment when I update my blog and people gets to read it and commend me for a job well done. E no easy, I swear.
The journey thus far has not been an easy one, I learnt everything on my own considering that so called renowned bloggers refused to help, even when I wrote to them asking them to put me through the route of blogging, guess they were busy or something but then its all good. Thank God for Google and other helpful blogs, though I have not learnt everything there is to blogging but I know I would get there………. Eventually!!!
Lesson 1: whatever you want to do, just get on with it…………….. yea its not usually easy at first, but with time you would get there. A saying goes thus “ if you can think it, you can do it” , remember ideas rule the world. Make sure you are passionate and love what you are doing…………….passion is like a fuel, the energy that drives you. Never give up until you get there. Persistence pays!!!!!
Watch out for the second series
Police arrest a Lebanese for allegedly having sex with under-aged girls in Akure
Wonders they say,'shall never end'. According to report reaching us, Ondo State Police Command has apprehended a Lebanese, simply identified as Jack Sankary for allegedly having sex with under-aged girls in Akure. The suspect was arrested following a tip off from the state Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development.
It was gathered that Sankary was found of having canal knowledge of the minors who are mostly in secondary schools.
A woman, also identified as Patience Godwin, 29, who was in contract of recruiting the young girls for the suspect has also been arrested in Akure.
A Source said that when the men of the Command stormed Godwin's house at Odopetu area of Akure, a 14-year-old girl, who was suspected to be one of her victims was found in the house.
It was further disclosed that Godwin had confessed to the crime.
It was equally gathered that no fewer than 86 under-aged girls allegedly fell to the antics the suspects who had devoured all of them.
Police spokesman, Wole Ogodo, who confirmed the arrest of the suspects said the incident had happened over five months ago.
Ogodo said the suspect, during interrogation said he did not force the girls to be involve in the alleged act.
It was gathered that Sankary was found of having canal knowledge of the minors who are mostly in secondary schools.
A woman, also identified as Patience Godwin, 29, who was in contract of recruiting the young girls for the suspect has also been arrested in Akure.
A Source said that when the men of the Command stormed Godwin's house at Odopetu area of Akure, a 14-year-old girl, who was suspected to be one of her victims was found in the house.
It was further disclosed that Godwin had confessed to the crime.
It was equally gathered that no fewer than 86 under-aged girls allegedly fell to the antics the suspects who had devoured all of them.
Police spokesman, Wole Ogodo, who confirmed the arrest of the suspects said the incident had happened over five months ago.
Ogodo said the suspect, during interrogation said he did not force the girls to be involve in the alleged act.
Police arrest a Lebanese for allegedly having sex with under-aged girls in Akure
Wonders they say,'shall never end'. According to report reaching us, Ondo State Police Command has apprehended a Lebanese, simply identified as Jack Sankary for allegedly having sex with under-aged girls in Akure. The suspect was arrested following a tip off from the state Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development.
It was gathered that Sankary was found of having canal knowledge of the minors who are mostly in secondary schools.
A woman, also identified as Patience Godwin, 29, who was in contract of recruiting the young girls for the suspect has also been arrested in Akure.
A Source said that when the men of the Command stormed Godwin's house at Odopetu area of Akure, a 14-year-old girl, who was suspected to be one of her victims was found in the house.
It was further disclosed that Godwin had confessed to the crime.
It was equally gathered that no fewer than 86 under-aged girls allegedly fell to the antics the suspects who had devoured all of them.
Police spokesman, Wole Ogodo, who confirmed the arrest of the suspects said the incident had happened over five months ago.
Ogodo said the suspect, during interrogation said he did not force the girls to be involve in the alleged act.
It was gathered that Sankary was found of having canal knowledge of the minors who are mostly in secondary schools.
A woman, also identified as Patience Godwin, 29, who was in contract of recruiting the young girls for the suspect has also been arrested in Akure.
A Source said that when the men of the Command stormed Godwin's house at Odopetu area of Akure, a 14-year-old girl, who was suspected to be one of her victims was found in the house.
It was further disclosed that Godwin had confessed to the crime.
It was equally gathered that no fewer than 86 under-aged girls allegedly fell to the antics the suspects who had devoured all of them.
Police spokesman, Wole Ogodo, who confirmed the arrest of the suspects said the incident had happened over five months ago.
Ogodo said the suspect, during interrogation said he did not force the girls to be involve in the alleged act.
Explosion in Katsina village; razes 6 houses, kills 3,
Three
people were killed when two fuel-laden articulated vehicles exploded at
Gyazama village, along the Funtua-Birnin Gwari road in Dandume Local
Government Area of Katsina State. Alhaji Abdulkadir
Muhammad, the Transition Committee Chairman of Dandume Local Government Council, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Dandume that four other persons sustained burns of various degrees.
He also said that six houses were also burnt in the resultant inferno which occurred on Saturday evening.
NAN reports that the blaze started when some drivers were transferring fuel from a broken-down vehicle to another through the use of a pumping machine.
Muhammad said that two of the deceased were the operators of the pumping machine, while those who sustained burns were receiving treatment at Funtua General Hospital.
He added that the houses were burnt because of the fuel which spilled from the scene of the incident.
Muhammad, who was an eye-witness, explained that the fire could not be contained by the Dandume council's firemen, adding that it took the intervention of nearby firemen from Faskari, Funtua and Dandume local government areas to put it off.
He said that the fire lasted up to Sunday morning, adding that he attended the burial of the deceased, while paying condolence visits to the victims' families.
Muhammad warned people in the area against illegal parking of vehicles, poor handling of flammable fuels as well as inappropriate use of pumping machines
Muhammad, the Transition Committee Chairman of Dandume Local Government Council, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Dandume that four other persons sustained burns of various degrees.
He also said that six houses were also burnt in the resultant inferno which occurred on Saturday evening.
NAN reports that the blaze started when some drivers were transferring fuel from a broken-down vehicle to another through the use of a pumping machine.
Muhammad said that two of the deceased were the operators of the pumping machine, while those who sustained burns were receiving treatment at Funtua General Hospital.
He added that the houses were burnt because of the fuel which spilled from the scene of the incident.
Muhammad, who was an eye-witness, explained that the fire could not be contained by the Dandume council's firemen, adding that it took the intervention of nearby firemen from Faskari, Funtua and Dandume local government areas to put it off.
He said that the fire lasted up to Sunday morning, adding that he attended the burial of the deceased, while paying condolence visits to the victims' families.
Muhammad warned people in the area against illegal parking of vehicles, poor handling of flammable fuels as well as inappropriate use of pumping machines
BREAKING NEWS:ASUU agrees to suspend strike, on 3 conditions
After almost five months of failed negotiations, Nigerian university
lecturers have agreed to end the ongoing strike. However, the teachers,
under the umbrella of the Academic Staff Union of Universities
(ASUU) have stated three conditions which must be met before the strike could be called off.
The conditions will be presented to President Goodluck Jonathan along with the Federal Government team today and if all parties are in agreement with the terms, the strike would be called off.
The ASUU leadership has banned its local chapters and zonal chairmen from talking to the media until after the session with the President.
ASUU President Dr. Nasir Issa Fagge and other leaders of the union were being expected in Abuja last night.
According to a source, who was part of the ASUU session at Mambayya House in Kano, the conditions are:
1)Commitment from the President that any review or reconsideration or renegotiation of the 2009 Agreement will not substantially affect the pact which is the cause of the ongoing strike.
2)Immediate payment of all outstanding salary arrears and allowances of varsity teachers without victimization; and
3)A written commitment from the President that the Federal Government will commit N225billion annually to the funding of universities for the next four years.
There is a fourth condition, which is said to be "personal" to ASUU, bordering on the need to be wary of gradual loss of public sympathy.
The union leaders were said to have recognized public goodwill for the strike and the need to avert any action that could erode such confidence.
The source said: "Our leaders are meeting with the President on Monday to table these conditions. Once the President accepts these three terms, the strike will be called off.
"In principle, members voted about 60-40 per cent to call off the strike, but they added a caveat , that ASUU leaders should extract a commitment (signed and sealed) from the President.
The union is said to have insisted on the three conditions because during talks with the Federal Government, it was apparent that the government wanted a renegotiation of the 2009 Agreement.
"If ASUU had accepted to renegotiate the entire Agreement, it means there will be no basis for the ongoing strike. The worst that can happen is either having the abridged version of the 2009 Agreement or a phased implementation of the document," the source added.
Whichever is the case,they should call off the strike already!!!!
(ASUU) have stated three conditions which must be met before the strike could be called off.
The conditions will be presented to President Goodluck Jonathan along with the Federal Government team today and if all parties are in agreement with the terms, the strike would be called off.
The ASUU leadership has banned its local chapters and zonal chairmen from talking to the media until after the session with the President.
ASUU President Dr. Nasir Issa Fagge and other leaders of the union were being expected in Abuja last night.
According to a source, who was part of the ASUU session at Mambayya House in Kano, the conditions are:
1)Commitment from the President that any review or reconsideration or renegotiation of the 2009 Agreement will not substantially affect the pact which is the cause of the ongoing strike.
2)Immediate payment of all outstanding salary arrears and allowances of varsity teachers without victimization; and
3)A written commitment from the President that the Federal Government will commit N225billion annually to the funding of universities for the next four years.
There is a fourth condition, which is said to be "personal" to ASUU, bordering on the need to be wary of gradual loss of public sympathy.
The union leaders were said to have recognized public goodwill for the strike and the need to avert any action that could erode such confidence.
The source said: "Our leaders are meeting with the President on Monday to table these conditions. Once the President accepts these three terms, the strike will be called off.
"In principle, members voted about 60-40 per cent to call off the strike, but they added a caveat , that ASUU leaders should extract a commitment (signed and sealed) from the President.
The union is said to have insisted on the three conditions because during talks with the Federal Government, it was apparent that the government wanted a renegotiation of the 2009 Agreement.
"If ASUU had accepted to renegotiate the entire Agreement, it means there will be no basis for the ongoing strike. The worst that can happen is either having the abridged version of the 2009 Agreement or a phased implementation of the document," the source added.
Whichever is the case,they should call off the strike already!!!!
Sunday, November 24, 2013
Breaking news: House Of Reps Member Died After Sleeping With Female Banker, Woman Arrested
A member of the House of Representatives from Ondo State died in the early hours of yesterday after what security sources said was a s*xual affair with a female banker in his private residence located at Gwarinpa Estate in Abuja.
Rep. Raphael Oloye Nomiye, who was 50 years old, was until his death representing Ondo, Ilaje, Ese Odo in Ondo State under the platform of the Labour Party.
The lawmaker was said to have died shortly after an affair with the banker (names withheld). The spokesperson of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) police command, Hyelhira Altine Daniel, confirmed the incident, saying the command was still investigating the cause of the legislator’s death.
When Sunday Trust visited the deceased’s residence at Second Avenue in Gwarinpa Estate, neighbours and witnesses said the banker, who managed his accounts, was said to have rushed down for the one-storey building to inform the policemen on guard at the house that “oga just fell down and is vomiting blood.”
They said when the policemen entered into his room upstairs, they found him laying on the floor with a towel tied round his waist, while he bled from the mouth. He was then quickly taken to a private clinic on 3rd Avenue within the estate in his official Toyota Camry 2012 car with Registration Number 148B Rep.
It was further learnt that doctors at clinic declined to attend to him, saying it was a “serious” matter, following which he was then rushed to the National Hospital, Abuja, where he was later pronounced dead.
Police sources disclosed that the banker, who is now in police custody at the Gwarinpa Police Division, had earlier denied having s*xual affair with the lawmaker before his death.
But she was said to have changed her statement after doctors at the National Hospital conducted an examination on corpse, which confirmed that the deceased had slept with a woman shortly before his demise.
The sources said after the test, the banker admitted to interrogators that she had actually slept with the deceased and had helped him to clean up, following which he went into the bathroom, where he suddenly fell and began to vomit blood.
Police investigators who inspected the lawmaker’s house had succeeded in recovering some items, including a bottle of water, which the deceased lawmaker had drank from some tissue papers and the clothes the deceased had worn earlier in the day, Sunday Trust gathered.
When our reporters visited the banker’s private residence located at Kado Estate in Abuja, two of her professional friends, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said the banker and Raphael had been friends. They, however, denied knowledge of the lawmaker’s death.
An investigation by Sunday Trust also revealed that although the late lawmaker was married, his wife and children were not living with him in Abuja.
As at press time, there was no official statement from his family or the House, but a lawmaker in the Lower Chamber confirmed the lawmaker’s demise. He added, however, that the House would make an official statement until it received formal notification from Nomiye’s family.
“I heard of his death, but we’re yet to get any official statement from his family or any doctor. The House will make an official statement when it eventually receives confirmation from his family,” said the source.
When contacted, the Deputy Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Media and Publicity, Victor Ogene, said he was yet to get an official confirmation of the death and, as such, wouldn’t comment on it.
Source: Sunday Trust
Rep. Raphael Oloye Nomiye, who was 50 years old, was until his death representing Ondo, Ilaje, Ese Odo in Ondo State under the platform of the Labour Party.
The lawmaker was said to have died shortly after an affair with the banker (names withheld). The spokesperson of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) police command, Hyelhira Altine Daniel, confirmed the incident, saying the command was still investigating the cause of the legislator’s death.
When Sunday Trust visited the deceased’s residence at Second Avenue in Gwarinpa Estate, neighbours and witnesses said the banker, who managed his accounts, was said to have rushed down for the one-storey building to inform the policemen on guard at the house that “oga just fell down and is vomiting blood.”
They said when the policemen entered into his room upstairs, they found him laying on the floor with a towel tied round his waist, while he bled from the mouth. He was then quickly taken to a private clinic on 3rd Avenue within the estate in his official Toyota Camry 2012 car with Registration Number 148B Rep.
It was further learnt that doctors at clinic declined to attend to him, saying it was a “serious” matter, following which he was then rushed to the National Hospital, Abuja, where he was later pronounced dead.
Police sources disclosed that the banker, who is now in police custody at the Gwarinpa Police Division, had earlier denied having s*xual affair with the lawmaker before his death.
But she was said to have changed her statement after doctors at the National Hospital conducted an examination on corpse, which confirmed that the deceased had slept with a woman shortly before his demise.
The sources said after the test, the banker admitted to interrogators that she had actually slept with the deceased and had helped him to clean up, following which he went into the bathroom, where he suddenly fell and began to vomit blood.
Police investigators who inspected the lawmaker’s house had succeeded in recovering some items, including a bottle of water, which the deceased lawmaker had drank from some tissue papers and the clothes the deceased had worn earlier in the day, Sunday Trust gathered.
When our reporters visited the banker’s private residence located at Kado Estate in Abuja, two of her professional friends, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said the banker and Raphael had been friends. They, however, denied knowledge of the lawmaker’s death.
An investigation by Sunday Trust also revealed that although the late lawmaker was married, his wife and children were not living with him in Abuja.
As at press time, there was no official statement from his family or the House, but a lawmaker in the Lower Chamber confirmed the lawmaker’s demise. He added, however, that the House would make an official statement until it received formal notification from Nomiye’s family.
“I heard of his death, but we’re yet to get any official statement from his family or any doctor. The House will make an official statement when it eventually receives confirmation from his family,” said the source.
When contacted, the Deputy Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Media and Publicity, Victor Ogene, said he was yet to get an official confirmation of the death and, as such, wouldn’t comment on it.
Source: Sunday Trust
Breaking news: House Of Reps Member Died After Sleeping With Female Banker, Woman Arrested
A member of the House of Representatives from Ondo State died in the early hours of yesterday after what security sources said was a s*xual affair with a female banker in his private residence located at Gwarinpa Estate in Abuja.
Rep. Raphael Oloye Nomiye, who was 50 years old, was until his death representing Ondo, Ilaje, Ese Odo in Ondo State under the platform of the Labour Party.
The lawmaker was said to have died shortly after an affair with the banker (names withheld). The spokesperson of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) police command, Hyelhira Altine Daniel, confirmed the incident, saying the command was still investigating the cause of the legislator’s death.
When Sunday Trust visited the deceased’s residence at Second Avenue in Gwarinpa Estate, neighbours and witnesses said the banker, who managed his accounts, was said to have rushed down for the one-storey building to inform the policemen on guard at the house that “oga just fell down and is vomiting blood.”
They said when the policemen entered into his room upstairs, they found him laying on the floor with a towel tied round his waist, while he bled from the mouth. He was then quickly taken to a private clinic on 3rd Avenue within the estate in his official Toyota Camry 2012 car with Registration Number 148B Rep.
It was further learnt that doctors at clinic declined to attend to him, saying it was a “serious” matter, following which he was then rushed to the National Hospital, Abuja, where he was later pronounced dead.
Police sources disclosed that the banker, who is now in police custody at the Gwarinpa Police Division, had earlier denied having s*xual affair with the lawmaker before his death.
But she was said to have changed her statement after doctors at the National Hospital conducted an examination on corpse, which confirmed that the deceased had slept with a woman shortly before his demise.
The sources said after the test, the banker admitted to interrogators that she had actually slept with the deceased and had helped him to clean up, following which he went into the bathroom, where he suddenly fell and began to vomit blood.
Police investigators who inspected the lawmaker’s house had succeeded in recovering some items, including a bottle of water, which the deceased lawmaker had drank from some tissue papers and the clothes the deceased had worn earlier in the day, Sunday Trust gathered.
When our reporters visited the banker’s private residence located at Kado Estate in Abuja, two of her professional friends, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said the banker and Raphael had been friends. They, however, denied knowledge of the lawmaker’s death.
An investigation by Sunday Trust also revealed that although the late lawmaker was married, his wife and children were not living with him in Abuja.
As at press time, there was no official statement from his family or the House, but a lawmaker in the Lower Chamber confirmed the lawmaker’s demise. He added, however, that the House would make an official statement until it received formal notification from Nomiye’s family.
“I heard of his death, but we’re yet to get any official statement from his family or any doctor. The House will make an official statement when it eventually receives confirmation from his family,” said the source.
When contacted, the Deputy Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Media and Publicity, Victor Ogene, said he was yet to get an official confirmation of the death and, as such, wouldn’t comment on it.
Source: Sunday Trust
Rep. Raphael Oloye Nomiye, who was 50 years old, was until his death representing Ondo, Ilaje, Ese Odo in Ondo State under the platform of the Labour Party.
The lawmaker was said to have died shortly after an affair with the banker (names withheld). The spokesperson of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) police command, Hyelhira Altine Daniel, confirmed the incident, saying the command was still investigating the cause of the legislator’s death.
When Sunday Trust visited the deceased’s residence at Second Avenue in Gwarinpa Estate, neighbours and witnesses said the banker, who managed his accounts, was said to have rushed down for the one-storey building to inform the policemen on guard at the house that “oga just fell down and is vomiting blood.”
They said when the policemen entered into his room upstairs, they found him laying on the floor with a towel tied round his waist, while he bled from the mouth. He was then quickly taken to a private clinic on 3rd Avenue within the estate in his official Toyota Camry 2012 car with Registration Number 148B Rep.
It was further learnt that doctors at clinic declined to attend to him, saying it was a “serious” matter, following which he was then rushed to the National Hospital, Abuja, where he was later pronounced dead.
Police sources disclosed that the banker, who is now in police custody at the Gwarinpa Police Division, had earlier denied having s*xual affair with the lawmaker before his death.
But she was said to have changed her statement after doctors at the National Hospital conducted an examination on corpse, which confirmed that the deceased had slept with a woman shortly before his demise.
The sources said after the test, the banker admitted to interrogators that she had actually slept with the deceased and had helped him to clean up, following which he went into the bathroom, where he suddenly fell and began to vomit blood.
Police investigators who inspected the lawmaker’s house had succeeded in recovering some items, including a bottle of water, which the deceased lawmaker had drank from some tissue papers and the clothes the deceased had worn earlier in the day, Sunday Trust gathered.
When our reporters visited the banker’s private residence located at Kado Estate in Abuja, two of her professional friends, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said the banker and Raphael had been friends. They, however, denied knowledge of the lawmaker’s death.
An investigation by Sunday Trust also revealed that although the late lawmaker was married, his wife and children were not living with him in Abuja.
As at press time, there was no official statement from his family or the House, but a lawmaker in the Lower Chamber confirmed the lawmaker’s demise. He added, however, that the House would make an official statement until it received formal notification from Nomiye’s family.
“I heard of his death, but we’re yet to get any official statement from his family or any doctor. The House will make an official statement when it eventually receives confirmation from his family,” said the source.
When contacted, the Deputy Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Media and Publicity, Victor Ogene, said he was yet to get an official confirmation of the death and, as such, wouldn’t comment on it.
Source: Sunday Trust
Saturday, November 23, 2013
Enugu community clash: , 11 houses and Police post burnt down
Tension is rising in Abbi community in Uzo-Uwani local government area of Enugu State following a power tussle between some natives and the council's vice chairman, Mr Maxwell Odoakpa. Information has
it that, in the last one week, no fewer than 12 houses including a police post, were set ablaze in the community.
The crisis, it was gathered, has forced some residents to flee to neighbouring towns over fear of reprisal attacks.
When contacted, the council chairman, Mr. Cornell Onwubuya, said that he was yet to be informed of the development in the community.
"How can I fuel a crisis in an area I am the chief security officer? My vice chairman is from Abbi and he knows everything about the crisis in that community," he stated.
it that, in the last one week, no fewer than 12 houses including a police post, were set ablaze in the community.
The crisis, it was gathered, has forced some residents to flee to neighbouring towns over fear of reprisal attacks.
When contacted, the council chairman, Mr. Cornell Onwubuya, said that he was yet to be informed of the development in the community.
"How can I fuel a crisis in an area I am the chief security officer? My vice chairman is from Abbi and he knows everything about the crisis in that community," he stated.
Breaking news : 5 feared dead in Bayelsa communal clash
At least five persons were feared dead yesterday through machete cuts in an inter communal land dispute between Akenfa and Agudama- Epie communities in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital. The five
persons killed were said to be on the disputed land when they were attacked. Already, one of the corpses had been recovered, while the others were still in the bush as at press time. All the victims are said to be indigenes of Agudama-Epie. About five other youths, who sustained machete cuts, are currently receiving medical treatment in an undisclosed hospital in the state capital.
The situation triggered an open fight among youths of both communities as schools and business premises in the area were abruptly shut down.
However, there are fears of reprisals from the kinsmen of the deceased while left residents all gripped with fear. Security was immediately beefed up at the Yenagoa Campus of the Nigerian Law School and the headquarters of the Central Naval Command all located at Agudama- Epie. Saturday Mirror was reliably informed that the intervention of the state security outfit, "Operation Doo Akpor" quelled the tensed situation.
It was gathered that the lingering land dispute had generated frosty relations between Akenfa and Agudama- Epie communities in the past.
A top security source in the state alleged that government had been complacent on the dispute between both communities, as he appealed that government should take over the disputed land to enable peace reign in the area.
When contacted, Bayelsa State Police Public Relations Officer, Alex Akhigbe, confirmed that there were casualties, but could not give the exact figure. Akhigbe said a team of policemen deployed to the scene of the fight, had put it under control.
persons killed were said to be on the disputed land when they were attacked. Already, one of the corpses had been recovered, while the others were still in the bush as at press time. All the victims are said to be indigenes of Agudama-Epie. About five other youths, who sustained machete cuts, are currently receiving medical treatment in an undisclosed hospital in the state capital.
The situation triggered an open fight among youths of both communities as schools and business premises in the area were abruptly shut down.
However, there are fears of reprisals from the kinsmen of the deceased while left residents all gripped with fear. Security was immediately beefed up at the Yenagoa Campus of the Nigerian Law School and the headquarters of the Central Naval Command all located at Agudama- Epie. Saturday Mirror was reliably informed that the intervention of the state security outfit, "Operation Doo Akpor" quelled the tensed situation.
It was gathered that the lingering land dispute had generated frosty relations between Akenfa and Agudama- Epie communities in the past.
A top security source in the state alleged that government had been complacent on the dispute between both communities, as he appealed that government should take over the disputed land to enable peace reign in the area.
When contacted, Bayelsa State Police Public Relations Officer, Alex Akhigbe, confirmed that there were casualties, but could not give the exact figure. Akhigbe said a team of policemen deployed to the scene of the fight, had put it under control.
Anambra Election :APC rejects supplementary election
The All Progressives Congress (APC) on Friday rejected the announcement by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of its decision to hold a supplementary election in Anambra Stateon November 30.
"We will not be a party to what is obviously a travesty of election by a self-discredited and conniving electoral umpire," the party said in a statement issued in Lagos by its Interim National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed.
It expressed "absolute shock and incredulity" that INEC could even contemplate such an election despite the weight of credible evidence presented by the party as well as election monitors/observers that what transpired on Nov. 16 was a sham.
"This announcement has confirmed our worst fears that INEC is working in cahoots with the PDP and the presidency to ensure that no election ever counts in Nigeria," the statement said, noting that the INEC Chairman himself was the first to admit that a senior official of the commission compromised the election in one local government in the state.
"We on our own part were able to establish that materials meant for several LGs that were the strongholds of our candidate were diverted; that out of the about 1.7 million registered voters in Anambra, only a little over 400,000 were accredited to vote; and that the voters' register was apparently tampered with to remove many names and disenfranchise thousands of voters.
''Yet, the same electoral body that admitted that the election was compromised has turned around to validate it by its decision to organize supplementary election instead of cancelling the parody of election and holding a fresh one. This is a sad day indeed,'' APC said.
The party said it has become obvious that Nigerians cannot count on INEC to organize a free, fair and credible election anywhere in the country.
"Nigerians must now take their fate in their own hands to ensure that the principle of one man, one vote is sacrosanct," APC warned.
.....APC!!!!!???? #lipsealed
"We will not be a party to what is obviously a travesty of election by a self-discredited and conniving electoral umpire," the party said in a statement issued in Lagos by its Interim National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed.
It expressed "absolute shock and incredulity" that INEC could even contemplate such an election despite the weight of credible evidence presented by the party as well as election monitors/observers that what transpired on Nov. 16 was a sham.
"This announcement has confirmed our worst fears that INEC is working in cahoots with the PDP and the presidency to ensure that no election ever counts in Nigeria," the statement said, noting that the INEC Chairman himself was the first to admit that a senior official of the commission compromised the election in one local government in the state.
"We on our own part were able to establish that materials meant for several LGs that were the strongholds of our candidate were diverted; that out of the about 1.7 million registered voters in Anambra, only a little over 400,000 were accredited to vote; and that the voters' register was apparently tampered with to remove many names and disenfranchise thousands of voters.
''Yet, the same electoral body that admitted that the election was compromised has turned around to validate it by its decision to organize supplementary election instead of cancelling the parody of election and holding a fresh one. This is a sad day indeed,'' APC said.
The party said it has become obvious that Nigerians cannot count on INEC to organize a free, fair and credible election anywhere in the country.
"Nigerians must now take their fate in their own hands to ensure that the principle of one man, one vote is sacrosanct," APC warned.
.....APC!!!!!???? #lipsealed
Friday, November 22, 2013
Abuja Carnival 2013
15 countries and 35 states would be participating in the Abuja National Carnival holding between Nov. 23 and Nov. 26.
The Deputy Director, Tourism Department, Social Development Secretariat, FCTA, Mr Jacob Areo, made the disclosure in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Abuja on Friday.
Areo said over 13, 000 people from different part of the country would be participating in the four-day carnival.
He listed some of the countries expected at the carnival include Jamaica, China, South Africa, Kenya, Ghana, Namibia and others from the United Kingdom and Arabian countries.
“We are expecting 35 states, including the FCT at the four-day carnival, while only Gombe state has not indicated interest in the carnival.
“This year, we have a large number of foreign countries that are going to participate.
“Last year, only three countries participated, but this year, we already have assurance from 15 countries to participate.
“Some of them have already arrived, while we are expecting more countries to arrive today,’’ he said.
Areo said all arrangements, including security, transportation, accommodation, provision of water and toilet facilities as well as traffic and waste management had been concluded for the carnival.
“We have already provided 15 schools that will be used as camp for various states that are coming; some of them have arrived, while we are expecting others.
“In the area of security, we have security sub-committee involving all security arms and member of security agents.
“They have been working and I believe they are on top of the situation,’’ he said.
The deputy director expressed optimism that the carnival was going to have multiplier effect on the development of the Nigerian economy.
The carnival, he said, would also have its positive effects in the areas of culture and tourism sector of the country.
“So far, we have about 13, 265 people coming from the states, I tell you, that is a huge number.
“Imaging this great number of people participating in various activities, this is a great avenue to promote tourism.
“Nigeria is our first target, if foreigners come in, it is an added advantage.
“If I leave Abuja, I should be able to go to another state to relax by these we will be able to explore.
“Let us explore our diverse cultural diversity, heritage and reach environment we are endowed with, that is all what tourism is all about,” he said.
He called for the collaboration of all residents and participants to host a carnival that Nigeria and African would proud of.
“We look forward to the participation of the residents of the city. This is a period for us to discover our reach heritage from all the states.
“In addition, all resident are enjoined to show their hospitality. Nigerians are hospitable people, we must also show our worth to the world,’’ he said.
Areo outlined programmes lined up for the event to include street carnival, polo tournament, durban, children fiesta, cultural night, masquerade fiesta, boat regatta, contemporary music fiesta, Art exhibition, among others.
The deputy director urged participants to put in their best because the carnival would not only be more than a social event, but a competition.
Source:PunchNg Online
The Deputy Director, Tourism Department, Social Development Secretariat, FCTA, Mr Jacob Areo, made the disclosure in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Abuja on Friday.
Areo said over 13, 000 people from different part of the country would be participating in the four-day carnival.
He listed some of the countries expected at the carnival include Jamaica, China, South Africa, Kenya, Ghana, Namibia and others from the United Kingdom and Arabian countries.
“We are expecting 35 states, including the FCT at the four-day carnival, while only Gombe state has not indicated interest in the carnival.
“This year, we have a large number of foreign countries that are going to participate.
“Last year, only three countries participated, but this year, we already have assurance from 15 countries to participate.
“Some of them have already arrived, while we are expecting more countries to arrive today,’’ he said.
Areo said all arrangements, including security, transportation, accommodation, provision of water and toilet facilities as well as traffic and waste management had been concluded for the carnival.
“We have already provided 15 schools that will be used as camp for various states that are coming; some of them have arrived, while we are expecting others.
“In the area of security, we have security sub-committee involving all security arms and member of security agents.
“They have been working and I believe they are on top of the situation,’’ he said.
The deputy director expressed optimism that the carnival was going to have multiplier effect on the development of the Nigerian economy.
The carnival, he said, would also have its positive effects in the areas of culture and tourism sector of the country.
“So far, we have about 13, 265 people coming from the states, I tell you, that is a huge number.
“Imaging this great number of people participating in various activities, this is a great avenue to promote tourism.
“Nigeria is our first target, if foreigners come in, it is an added advantage.
“If I leave Abuja, I should be able to go to another state to relax by these we will be able to explore.
“Let us explore our diverse cultural diversity, heritage and reach environment we are endowed with, that is all what tourism is all about,” he said.
He called for the collaboration of all residents and participants to host a carnival that Nigeria and African would proud of.
“We look forward to the participation of the residents of the city. This is a period for us to discover our reach heritage from all the states.
“In addition, all resident are enjoined to show their hospitality. Nigerians are hospitable people, we must also show our worth to the world,’’ he said.
Areo outlined programmes lined up for the event to include street carnival, polo tournament, durban, children fiesta, cultural night, masquerade fiesta, boat regatta, contemporary music fiesta, Art exhibition, among others.
The deputy director urged participants to put in their best because the carnival would not only be more than a social event, but a competition.
Source:PunchNg Online
Anambra Election: Update
supplementary election to hold on the 30th of November,this Was revealed by the INEC chairman;Prof.Jega.
Hope they get it right this time#justsaying
Hope they get it right this time#justsaying
Aero Contractor to be named Nigerian Eagle
Aero Contractors, partly owned by the Ibru family has changed its name to Nigerian Eagle, and will most likely be the official national carrier.
The airline will be unveiled this Sunday as the nation's national carrier by President Goodluck Jonathan on his return from the UK.
"There will not be Aero Contractors anymore. It is now Nigerian Eagle and it will be launched on Sunday by Mr. President. You will not see Aero anymore after the launch of this airline”. Sources told Thisday on Wednesday,
The Federal Government owns 60% stake in the airline.
Source: thisday
The airline will be unveiled this Sunday as the nation's national carrier by President Goodluck Jonathan on his return from the UK.
"There will not be Aero Contractors anymore. It is now Nigerian Eagle and it will be launched on Sunday by Mr. President. You will not see Aero anymore after the launch of this airline”. Sources told Thisday on Wednesday,
The Federal Government owns 60% stake in the airline.
Source: thisday
Anambra Election:why it should be cancelled " - APC
The All Progressives Congress (APC) yesterday gave 16 reasons why last Saturday's Anambra governorship poll should be cancelled by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The party insisted that the poll was not only marred by irregularities, it was conducted without compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act.
It advised INEC to pull the brakes on the proposed Supplementary Election ? in line with the powers vested on it by the Electoral Act.
The APC made the demands in a November 18, 2013 letter to the Chairman of INEC, Prof. Attahiru Jega.
The party said since no candidate has been declared as the winner of the poll, INEC can cancel it.
The letter was released to the public at a briefing addressed by the APC National Chairman, Chief Bisi Akande.
Akande addressed the press alongside the National Secretary of the party, Alhaji Tijjani Tumsa; the National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed; the National Treasurer, Hajiya Sadia Umar Farouk;
Deputy National Organising Secretary, Senator Lawal Shuaibu and the Deputy National Secretary, Mallam Nasir el-Rufai.
The party listed other reasons for the cancellation of the poll as follows:
1)tainted Voters' Register. The register used for the poll was different from the ones issued to parties;
2)INEC claimed 1,763,751 were registered voters, only 451, 826 voters could find their names;
3)failure to deploy election officials in sufficient numbers;
4)election materials were not distributed in a timely manner,
5)recruitment of election officials at the election venue and deployment without any form of training,
6)INEC's failure to respond to operational challenges on time;
7)INEC's admission of irregularities in 16 local government areas, 1,380 polling units with 600,000 voters affected;
8)disenfranchisement of many voters;
9)results were brought without being publicly announced by the local government area collation officers;
10)disappearance of Ms. Seyi Oguntuwase with all the Result Sheets;
11)the integrity of the announced results cannot be vouchsafed;
12)poor rating of the collation process by the Nigeria Civil Society Election Situation Room;
13)INEC official working in concert with some outside influence compromised the election in Idemili North; and
14)Anambra REC had undisguised and deep-seated bias against the defunct ACN and APC candidate, Dr. Chris Ngige.
The APC seven-page letter reads in part: "We note that your commission has announced plans to conduct 'Supplementary Election' in 201 Polling Units in 16 Local Government Areas of Anambra State. As at date, the names of the polling areas affected is yet to be released.
"We respectfully demand that the commission discontinue all arrangements for the conduct of the said 'Supplementary Election'. We also demand that no candidate in the said election should be returned as the winner pending the conduct of fresh election.
"Our demand is predicated on the serious irregularities and non-compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act 2010 as amended which characterised the conduct of the said election.
"To proceed with the election as proposed by your commission will amount to a gruesome assault on the right of the people of Anambra State to elect a governor of their choice and a legitimising of a grave travesty of the electoral process as witnessed during the November 16, 2013 Governorship Election."
The party insisted that INEC was not constrained by the Electoral Act in canceling the governorship poll.
APC added: "Having regard to the foregoing, it is inevitable that the election is fundamentally flawed and cannot be redeemed by the proposed 'Supplementary Election'.
"In an electoral process, a Ward or Local Government Collation Officer who stands in the same position as State Collation/Returning Officer can cancel or reject results submitted to him at ward or local government level where the result is tainted with vice or irregularities. The Commission, is therefore, duly empowered to reject the purported results as announced. It is instructive that it is the prior cancellation of results by the Commission that has led to the affected areas being included in the areas for which the "Supplementary Election" is to be held."
"Therefore, the assertion by your Chief Press Secretary, Kayode Idowu as reported in the Punch Newspaper of Tuesday, 19th November, 2013 to the effect that "By law, those results are now beyond the purview of INEC to invalidate. Only the courts have that power now to do so... All that the Commission can do is to conduct a supplementary election so that the CRO can make a return" is erroneous and misconceived, given that a return is yet to be made. A correct reading of the Electoral Act 2010 as amended is to the effect that your Commission cannot reverse itself where a candidate in the election has been returned as a winner. This has not been done. Indeed, your commission had on Monday, 18th November, 2013 declared the election as "inconclusive".
"We respectfully demand that the proposed 'Supplementary Election' be discontinued and the entire election cancelled pursuant to the powers vested in the Commission by the Electoral Act as amended.
"We further demand that your commission conducts fresh election to enable people of Anambra State elect a governor of their choice devoid of manifest, widespread and substantial irregularities.
"In securing the integrity of such fresh election, we demand that the current Resident Electoral Commissioner for Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuemeka Onukaogu, be transferred out of Anambra State and a new Resident Electoral Commissioner be appointed to head Anambra State INEC and superintend such fresh election.
"We also demand that the arrest and immediate prosecution of Prof. Onukaogu and members of his syndicate involved in the electoral fraud that has brought odium and ridicule to Nigerians in the eyes of the world.
"These are the ways to rebuild public confidence in your Commission and restore the integrity of the electoral process."
The party went into the details of how the poll process was flawed.
The letter added in part: "Fundamentally, the integrity of an election is premised on an unassailable Voters' Register. The Voters' Register used for the election was tainted with vice, to the effect that many voters were disenfranchised across most Local Government Areas (LGAs0 of Anambra state, particularly in the stronghold of our candidate. Further, the said voters register in the LGAs controlled by the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), our major opponent, were padded with minors and multiple registrants, contrary to the assurances given by the National Chairman and Director of ICT Department, Mr. Nwafor at the Stakeholders' Meeting held at Awka on the 13th November, 2013. Further, the late issuance of the final voters' register to the political parties on the 13th November, 2013 ? barely 2 (two) days to the all-important election was calculated to aid the irregularities that we now complain about.
"While our initial preliminary observations had identified 4 (four) LGAs where the election was seriously flawed, the Commission not only admitted that these irregularities indeed occurred but widened the scope of the areas where the electoral malpractices and irregularities occurred to 16 (sixteen) LGAs and 210 Polling Units 9PUS0 with 113, 113 registered voters, thereby affecting a substantial part of the constituency.
"Our reports from our field agents had catalogued about 1,380 (PUs) of about 600,000 voters with one form of irregularity or the other ranging from lack of result sheets before voting and non-recording or announcement of results by Presiding Officers on the instruction of the Supervisory Presiding Officers(SPOs) and Electoral Officers(EOs).
"Though you had contended that only the electorate in Obosi, Idemili North LGA was disenfranchised, it is now apparent that these irregularities were more widespread than earlier envisaged by you.
"To worsen matters, the commission illegally proceeded to conduct another election at Obosi on a Sunday, notwithstanding the absence of a Legal Notice to the political parties and the voters in the constituency.
"The action of the commission was also an affront to the religious sensibilities of the predominantly Christian population in the constituency. This led to the disenfranchisement of most voters, thereby casting a further slur on the integrity of the process."
...
The party insisted that the poll was not only marred by irregularities, it was conducted without compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act.
It advised INEC to pull the brakes on the proposed Supplementary Election ? in line with the powers vested on it by the Electoral Act.
The APC made the demands in a November 18, 2013 letter to the Chairman of INEC, Prof. Attahiru Jega.
The party said since no candidate has been declared as the winner of the poll, INEC can cancel it.
The letter was released to the public at a briefing addressed by the APC National Chairman, Chief Bisi Akande.
Akande addressed the press alongside the National Secretary of the party, Alhaji Tijjani Tumsa; the National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed; the National Treasurer, Hajiya Sadia Umar Farouk;
Deputy National Organising Secretary, Senator Lawal Shuaibu and the Deputy National Secretary, Mallam Nasir el-Rufai.
The party listed other reasons for the cancellation of the poll as follows:
1)tainted Voters' Register. The register used for the poll was different from the ones issued to parties;
2)INEC claimed 1,763,751 were registered voters, only 451, 826 voters could find their names;
3)failure to deploy election officials in sufficient numbers;
4)election materials were not distributed in a timely manner,
5)recruitment of election officials at the election venue and deployment without any form of training,
6)INEC's failure to respond to operational challenges on time;
7)INEC's admission of irregularities in 16 local government areas, 1,380 polling units with 600,000 voters affected;
8)disenfranchisement of many voters;
9)results were brought without being publicly announced by the local government area collation officers;
10)disappearance of Ms. Seyi Oguntuwase with all the Result Sheets;
11)the integrity of the announced results cannot be vouchsafed;
12)poor rating of the collation process by the Nigeria Civil Society Election Situation Room;
13)INEC official working in concert with some outside influence compromised the election in Idemili North; and
14)Anambra REC had undisguised and deep-seated bias against the defunct ACN and APC candidate, Dr. Chris Ngige.
The APC seven-page letter reads in part: "We note that your commission has announced plans to conduct 'Supplementary Election' in 201 Polling Units in 16 Local Government Areas of Anambra State. As at date, the names of the polling areas affected is yet to be released.
"We respectfully demand that the commission discontinue all arrangements for the conduct of the said 'Supplementary Election'. We also demand that no candidate in the said election should be returned as the winner pending the conduct of fresh election.
"Our demand is predicated on the serious irregularities and non-compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act 2010 as amended which characterised the conduct of the said election.
"To proceed with the election as proposed by your commission will amount to a gruesome assault on the right of the people of Anambra State to elect a governor of their choice and a legitimising of a grave travesty of the electoral process as witnessed during the November 16, 2013 Governorship Election."
The party insisted that INEC was not constrained by the Electoral Act in canceling the governorship poll.
APC added: "Having regard to the foregoing, it is inevitable that the election is fundamentally flawed and cannot be redeemed by the proposed 'Supplementary Election'.
"In an electoral process, a Ward or Local Government Collation Officer who stands in the same position as State Collation/Returning Officer can cancel or reject results submitted to him at ward or local government level where the result is tainted with vice or irregularities. The Commission, is therefore, duly empowered to reject the purported results as announced. It is instructive that it is the prior cancellation of results by the Commission that has led to the affected areas being included in the areas for which the "Supplementary Election" is to be held."
"Therefore, the assertion by your Chief Press Secretary, Kayode Idowu as reported in the Punch Newspaper of Tuesday, 19th November, 2013 to the effect that "By law, those results are now beyond the purview of INEC to invalidate. Only the courts have that power now to do so... All that the Commission can do is to conduct a supplementary election so that the CRO can make a return" is erroneous and misconceived, given that a return is yet to be made. A correct reading of the Electoral Act 2010 as amended is to the effect that your Commission cannot reverse itself where a candidate in the election has been returned as a winner. This has not been done. Indeed, your commission had on Monday, 18th November, 2013 declared the election as "inconclusive".
"We respectfully demand that the proposed 'Supplementary Election' be discontinued and the entire election cancelled pursuant to the powers vested in the Commission by the Electoral Act as amended.
"We further demand that your commission conducts fresh election to enable people of Anambra State elect a governor of their choice devoid of manifest, widespread and substantial irregularities.
"In securing the integrity of such fresh election, we demand that the current Resident Electoral Commissioner for Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuemeka Onukaogu, be transferred out of Anambra State and a new Resident Electoral Commissioner be appointed to head Anambra State INEC and superintend such fresh election.
"We also demand that the arrest and immediate prosecution of Prof. Onukaogu and members of his syndicate involved in the electoral fraud that has brought odium and ridicule to Nigerians in the eyes of the world.
"These are the ways to rebuild public confidence in your Commission and restore the integrity of the electoral process."
The party went into the details of how the poll process was flawed.
The letter added in part: "Fundamentally, the integrity of an election is premised on an unassailable Voters' Register. The Voters' Register used for the election was tainted with vice, to the effect that many voters were disenfranchised across most Local Government Areas (LGAs0 of Anambra state, particularly in the stronghold of our candidate. Further, the said voters register in the LGAs controlled by the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), our major opponent, were padded with minors and multiple registrants, contrary to the assurances given by the National Chairman and Director of ICT Department, Mr. Nwafor at the Stakeholders' Meeting held at Awka on the 13th November, 2013. Further, the late issuance of the final voters' register to the political parties on the 13th November, 2013 ? barely 2 (two) days to the all-important election was calculated to aid the irregularities that we now complain about.
"While our initial preliminary observations had identified 4 (four) LGAs where the election was seriously flawed, the Commission not only admitted that these irregularities indeed occurred but widened the scope of the areas where the electoral malpractices and irregularities occurred to 16 (sixteen) LGAs and 210 Polling Units 9PUS0 with 113, 113 registered voters, thereby affecting a substantial part of the constituency.
"Our reports from our field agents had catalogued about 1,380 (PUs) of about 600,000 voters with one form of irregularity or the other ranging from lack of result sheets before voting and non-recording or announcement of results by Presiding Officers on the instruction of the Supervisory Presiding Officers(SPOs) and Electoral Officers(EOs).
"Though you had contended that only the electorate in Obosi, Idemili North LGA was disenfranchised, it is now apparent that these irregularities were more widespread than earlier envisaged by you.
"To worsen matters, the commission illegally proceeded to conduct another election at Obosi on a Sunday, notwithstanding the absence of a Legal Notice to the political parties and the voters in the constituency.
"The action of the commission was also an affront to the religious sensibilities of the predominantly Christian population in the constituency. This led to the disenfranchisement of most voters, thereby casting a further slur on the integrity of the process."
...
ASUU : NEC meeting to hold today
ASUU union official has confirmed that the National Executive Council meeting which was postponed after the sudden death of Festus Iyayi is slated to be held on Friday. At the meeting, it is expected that the union will discuss issue as related to calling off the month's long strike.
Dr. Lawan Abubakar, the chairman of the ASUU branch at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi told Newsmen that the rumor is true; the union will hold the council meeting today.
The union leadership and President Goodluck Jonathan's team met two weeks ago and there was optimism all around afterward. The leadership took the federal government's offer to the union branch leaders, who then voted at each school across the country regarding whether to continue the strike or not. The clear majority voted to end the strike.
That set up the NEC meeting, which was originally supposed to be held on November 13. If the union had voted to end the strike, then a meeting was planned with Jonathan the next day to finalize the move.
But on November 12 the sudden death of Iyayi, a former ASUU president, shocked the union, prompting leadership to call a 7-day mourning period, and throwing into question any ending of the strike.
Now the union will be meeting today, and likely vote to end the strike.
Dr. Lawan Abubakar, the chairman of the ASUU branch at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi told Newsmen that the rumor is true; the union will hold the council meeting today.
The union leadership and President Goodluck Jonathan's team met two weeks ago and there was optimism all around afterward. The leadership took the federal government's offer to the union branch leaders, who then voted at each school across the country regarding whether to continue the strike or not. The clear majority voted to end the strike.
That set up the NEC meeting, which was originally supposed to be held on November 13. If the union had voted to end the strike, then a meeting was planned with Jonathan the next day to finalize the move.
But on November 12 the sudden death of Iyayi, a former ASUU president, shocked the union, prompting leadership to call a 7-day mourning period, and throwing into question any ending of the strike.
Now the union will be meeting today, and likely vote to end the strike.
Thursday, November 21, 2013
President Jonathan undergoing Medical Check up in the UK
Reuben Abati,who the Presidential spokesperson has announced that the president is currently undergoing medical check up in the UK but says it's nothing serious. See the State House press release below...
In the course of his on-going visit to London for a meeting of Nigeria’s Honorary International Investors’ Council, President Goodluck Jonathan became indisposed and could not be present at the opening of the meeting today. President Jonathan has since been examined by competent medical practitioners. He has been advised to rest for a few days.
The Presidency wishes to assure all Nigerians that President Jonathan’s condition is nothing serious and that the medical attention he has sought is only precautionary.
Reuben Abati, Special Adviser to the President (Media & Publicity) November 21, 2013
Well we are wishing Mr. President a sound health and a quick recovery#Amen
In the course of his on-going visit to London for a meeting of Nigeria’s Honorary International Investors’ Council, President Goodluck Jonathan became indisposed and could not be present at the opening of the meeting today. President Jonathan has since been examined by competent medical practitioners. He has been advised to rest for a few days.
The Presidency wishes to assure all Nigerians that President Jonathan’s condition is nothing serious and that the medical attention he has sought is only precautionary.
Reuben Abati, Special Adviser to the President (Media & Publicity) November 21, 2013
Well we are wishing Mr. President a sound health and a quick recovery#Amen
Anambra Election:''I will only be part of supplementary election if...'' - Nwoye
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in Saturday's governorship election, Tony Nwoye yesterday said he would not participate in the planned supplementary election by Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) if the commission refuses to cancel results in the 16 local governments it accepted had issues with voters' register.
INEC had announced it would conduct supplementary election in some polling units across the state where results or election were cancelled.
But Nwoye, who spoke to Daily Sun yesterday said he won't have any business with the supplementary polls if INEC refused to cancel election in the 16 local governments the commission admitted it "messed up."
Nwoye, who himself was a victim of disenfranchisement asked INEC to explain what happened to the voters' register used in 2011 and the one it gave the political parties few weeks to the election.
On the rumour making the rounds that some PDP members worked against the interest of the party, Nwoye said he knew his party supported him fully, adding that if anyone or group of people worked against the party, "I leave that to the person and his conscience."
He insisted that INEC should do the needful and cancel the entire election so that it could put its house in order and conduct a credible election
Ok na INEC u've heard it #do the needfull
INEC had announced it would conduct supplementary election in some polling units across the state where results or election were cancelled.
But Nwoye, who spoke to Daily Sun yesterday said he won't have any business with the supplementary polls if INEC refused to cancel election in the 16 local governments the commission admitted it "messed up."
Nwoye, who himself was a victim of disenfranchisement asked INEC to explain what happened to the voters' register used in 2011 and the one it gave the political parties few weeks to the election.
On the rumour making the rounds that some PDP members worked against the interest of the party, Nwoye said he knew his party supported him fully, adding that if anyone or group of people worked against the party, "I leave that to the person and his conscience."
He insisted that INEC should do the needful and cancel the entire election so that it could put its house in order and conduct a credible election
Ok na INEC u've heard it #do the needfull
Anambra Election:''I will only be part of supplementary election if...'' - Nwoye
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in Saturday's governorship election, Tony Nwoye yesterday said he would not participate in the planned supplementary election by Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) if the commission refuses to cancel results in the 16 local governments it accepted had issues with voters' register.
INEC had announced it would conduct supplementary election in some polling units across the state where results or election were cancelled.
But Nwoye, who spoke to Daily Sun yesterday said he won't have any business with the supplementary polls if INEC refused to cancel election in the 16 local governments the commission admitted it "messed up."
Nwoye, who himself was a victim of disenfranchisement asked INEC to explain what happened to the voters' register used in 2011 and the one it gave the political parties few weeks to the election.
On the rumour making the rounds that some PDP members worked against the interest of the party, Nwoye said he knew his party supported him fully, adding that if anyone or group of people worked against the party, "I leave that to the person and his conscience."
He insisted that INEC should do the needful and cancel the entire election so that it could put its house in order and conduct a credible election
Ok na INEC u've heard it #do the needfull
INEC had announced it would conduct supplementary election in some polling units across the state where results or election were cancelled.
But Nwoye, who spoke to Daily Sun yesterday said he won't have any business with the supplementary polls if INEC refused to cancel election in the 16 local governments the commission admitted it "messed up."
Nwoye, who himself was a victim of disenfranchisement asked INEC to explain what happened to the voters' register used in 2011 and the one it gave the political parties few weeks to the election.
On the rumour making the rounds that some PDP members worked against the interest of the party, Nwoye said he knew his party supported him fully, adding that if anyone or group of people worked against the party, "I leave that to the person and his conscience."
He insisted that INEC should do the needful and cancel the entire election so that it could put its house in order and conduct a credible election
Ok na INEC u've heard it #do the needfull
Nigeria to borrow $100 million from India to power three (3) states
Nigeria's Federal Executive Council FEC, on Wednesday approved a loan of 100 million dollars (about N15.7 billion) from Indian Import Export Bank to boost power supply in three states. Dr Yerima Ngama, the
Minister of State for Finance, disclosed this after the council meeting presided over by Vice President Namadi Sambo. Ngama said that the loan, to be taken by the Federal Government, would be lent to Cross Rivers, Enugu and Kaduna states.
Specifically, Ngama said that 30 million dollars (about N465 million) would be given to Cross-Rivers for the development of the Calabar independent Power Project.
He said that Enugu State government would get 40 million dollars (about N620 million) for the electrification of 96 communities.
The minister said the loan would be used for the installation of 33KVA and 15KVA lines as well as the distribution of transformers and other accessories to the 96 communities in the three Senatorial Zones of the state.
He said that 30 million dollars will be given to Kaduna State government to augment the resources needed for the construction of the 70 Km transmission line from the Gurara Dam to Kaduna industrial area.
Ngama said the fund would also be used for the construction of 132 KVA and 33KVA sub-stations for power supply to the Kaduna industrial area.
He added that 50 communities in the state would also benefit from solar electricity project.
The minister said that the facility, which is coming at a concessionary rate, was taken at 2 per cent interest rate to be repaid over a 10-year period with three years moratorium.
He added that there would be a commitment charge of 0.5 per cent of undrawn balance and 0.5 per cent for service charge.
Ngama said that the facility had been approved by both the National Assembly in the Medium Term borrowing plan, and by the benefiting state houses of assembly.
"We believe that this facility will go a long way towards transforming our industrial areas and other communities as part of Mr President's commitment to economic transformation agenda," he said.
Ngama gave assurance that the country would not be plunged into the era of huge foreign debt with high servicing rate.
He said that the ratio of debt to GDP was just slightly less than 20 per cent and that the loans taken by government were geared towards the development of infrastructural facilities.
The minister explained that the credit facilities being taken by the administration were different from the previous loans that led to the pile-up of huge foreign debt.
"Preponderant of commercial credits led to high interest rates, making Nigeria to pay over 40 billion dollars for debt servicing.
"Under the current regime, government is getting development loans also known as multilateral and bilateral assistance," he said.
Ngama said that domestic debts put at about N600 trillion was of greater concern to government.
He said the reason for the high domestic debt was because of high interest rate charged by local banks, which he put as about 19 per cent.The minister said that because of the high interest rate on domestic loan it was preferable to go for concessionary foreign loans.
- NAN
Minister of State for Finance, disclosed this after the council meeting presided over by Vice President Namadi Sambo. Ngama said that the loan, to be taken by the Federal Government, would be lent to Cross Rivers, Enugu and Kaduna states.
Specifically, Ngama said that 30 million dollars (about N465 million) would be given to Cross-Rivers for the development of the Calabar independent Power Project.
He said that Enugu State government would get 40 million dollars (about N620 million) for the electrification of 96 communities.
The minister said the loan would be used for the installation of 33KVA and 15KVA lines as well as the distribution of transformers and other accessories to the 96 communities in the three Senatorial Zones of the state.
He said that 30 million dollars will be given to Kaduna State government to augment the resources needed for the construction of the 70 Km transmission line from the Gurara Dam to Kaduna industrial area.
Ngama said the fund would also be used for the construction of 132 KVA and 33KVA sub-stations for power supply to the Kaduna industrial area.
He added that 50 communities in the state would also benefit from solar electricity project.
The minister said that the facility, which is coming at a concessionary rate, was taken at 2 per cent interest rate to be repaid over a 10-year period with three years moratorium.
He added that there would be a commitment charge of 0.5 per cent of undrawn balance and 0.5 per cent for service charge.
Ngama said that the facility had been approved by both the National Assembly in the Medium Term borrowing plan, and by the benefiting state houses of assembly.
"We believe that this facility will go a long way towards transforming our industrial areas and other communities as part of Mr President's commitment to economic transformation agenda," he said.
Ngama gave assurance that the country would not be plunged into the era of huge foreign debt with high servicing rate.
He said that the ratio of debt to GDP was just slightly less than 20 per cent and that the loans taken by government were geared towards the development of infrastructural facilities.
The minister explained that the credit facilities being taken by the administration were different from the previous loans that led to the pile-up of huge foreign debt.
"Preponderant of commercial credits led to high interest rates, making Nigeria to pay over 40 billion dollars for debt servicing.
"Under the current regime, government is getting development loans also known as multilateral and bilateral assistance," he said.
Ngama said that domestic debts put at about N600 trillion was of greater concern to government.
He said the reason for the high domestic debt was because of high interest rate charged by local banks, which he put as about 19 per cent.The minister said that because of the high interest rate on domestic loan it was preferable to go for concessionary foreign loans.
- NAN
Yoruba Group rejects call for sack of Kuku
Yoruba socio-cultural group, the National Committee of Yoruba Youths (NCYY), has condemned the call for the sack of the Chairman of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Kingsley Kuku, by a group.
The group, Niger-Delta Awareness Coalition and Ex-Militant Forum, recently called for the sack of Mr Kuku, on the allegation of fraud.
Addressing reporters yesterday in Ibadan, the President of NCYY, Odeyemi Oladimeji, described the group as faceless adding that it was hired by desperate politicians to start campaign of calumny against Kuku.
"We have carefully watched events as they unfold in our nation and this is another method by some people to destroy the legacy of a man, who symbolises anything good that could come out of the Yoruba race and Nigerian youths.
"We have taken this as a concern not because of the person involved, but also because some of our promising youths are being induced by some politicians and ethnic chauvinists to distract Kuku and the amnesty programme" he said.
According to Oladimeji, since the beginning of the programme in 2010, about 20,000 Niger-Delta youths have been trained at home and abroad in vocational skills.
The NCYY president added:" With PAP, Niger-Delta youths, whose violent agitation almost brought our country to a standstill economically, are well trained and the country's crude production, which fell from 2.2 million barrels per day to as low as 700,000 barrels per day,is now between 2.4 million and 2.6 million barrels per day."
The group, Niger-Delta Awareness Coalition and Ex-Militant Forum, recently called for the sack of Mr Kuku, on the allegation of fraud.
Addressing reporters yesterday in Ibadan, the President of NCYY, Odeyemi Oladimeji, described the group as faceless adding that it was hired by desperate politicians to start campaign of calumny against Kuku.
"We have carefully watched events as they unfold in our nation and this is another method by some people to destroy the legacy of a man, who symbolises anything good that could come out of the Yoruba race and Nigerian youths.
"We have taken this as a concern not because of the person involved, but also because some of our promising youths are being induced by some politicians and ethnic chauvinists to distract Kuku and the amnesty programme" he said.
According to Oladimeji, since the beginning of the programme in 2010, about 20,000 Niger-Delta youths have been trained at home and abroad in vocational skills.
The NCYY president added:" With PAP, Niger-Delta youths, whose violent agitation almost brought our country to a standstill economically, are well trained and the country's crude production, which fell from 2.2 million barrels per day to as low as 700,000 barrels per day,is now between 2.4 million and 2.6 million barrels per day."
Unbelievable: Teacher flogs 4-yr-old pupil to death for being stubborn
Detectives in OndoState have detained a primary school teacher, Alade Adebayo, for allegedly flogging to death a four-year-old female pupil Elizabeth Wanogha.
The deceased pupil was a student of a private primary school, Falaye Memorial Nursery and Primary School, located at Fanibi area in Akure metropolis. The teacher, according to report, accused the deceased of being stubborn in the class. He was said to have beaten the girl to a state of coma. Cries from other pupils in the class reportedly attracted other teachers who rushed to the scene where they found that the girl had fainted. She was said to have been rushed to a private hospital and was admitted but reportedly died later.
Police authorities, however, said that the pupil died two weeks after the beating by the suspect. The father of the deceased, Mr Wanogha lodged a complaint at the Fanibi Police station, alleging that his daughter died as a result of the injuries sustained from the severe beating by her teacher. Following the complaint, the teacher was arrested for interrogation. Contacted, the Police image maker, Wole Ogodo, confirmed that the teacher had been arrested. Ogodo however said that people should not jump into conclusion that it was the beating which took place about two weeks earlier that led to the death of the pupil. He pointed out that the autopsy will determine the cause of the pupil’s death. Ogodo said that the suspect is being quizzed at the state Criminal Investigative Department, SCID. He explained further that the deceased was hospitalised immediately after the beating but died two weeks after. Ogodo said that investigation into the death of the pupil continues adding that the findings would be made public. The father of the deceased pupil insisted that the teacher should be prosecuted for murder. Mr wanogho who lived at Adebowale street Fanibi vowed that the matter would be pursued to a logical conclusion to serve as deterrent to wicked teachers who vent their anger on innocent pupils put in their care.
He appealed to NGOs to take the matter up by ensuring that it was not swept under the carpet. The proprietor of the school declined comment on the incident.
The deceased pupil was a student of a private primary school, Falaye Memorial Nursery and Primary School, located at Fanibi area in Akure metropolis. The teacher, according to report, accused the deceased of being stubborn in the class. He was said to have beaten the girl to a state of coma. Cries from other pupils in the class reportedly attracted other teachers who rushed to the scene where they found that the girl had fainted. She was said to have been rushed to a private hospital and was admitted but reportedly died later.
Police authorities, however, said that the pupil died two weeks after the beating by the suspect. The father of the deceased, Mr Wanogha lodged a complaint at the Fanibi Police station, alleging that his daughter died as a result of the injuries sustained from the severe beating by her teacher. Following the complaint, the teacher was arrested for interrogation. Contacted, the Police image maker, Wole Ogodo, confirmed that the teacher had been arrested. Ogodo however said that people should not jump into conclusion that it was the beating which took place about two weeks earlier that led to the death of the pupil. He pointed out that the autopsy will determine the cause of the pupil’s death. Ogodo said that the suspect is being quizzed at the state Criminal Investigative Department, SCID. He explained further that the deceased was hospitalised immediately after the beating but died two weeks after. Ogodo said that investigation into the death of the pupil continues adding that the findings would be made public. The father of the deceased pupil insisted that the teacher should be prosecuted for murder. Mr wanogho who lived at Adebowale street Fanibi vowed that the matter would be pursued to a logical conclusion to serve as deterrent to wicked teachers who vent their anger on innocent pupils put in their care.
He appealed to NGOs to take the matter up by ensuring that it was not swept under the carpet. The proprietor of the school declined comment on the incident.
Boko Haram: CAN alleges fresh attacks on Christians in North-East
The Christian Association of Nigeria on Wednesday raised the alarm over alleged continued killings of Christians in the North by the Boko Haram Islamic sect. The association, in a communiqué at the end of its Special Meeting in Abuja by its General Secretary, Dr. Musa Asake, expressed worries that despite the state of emergency declared in the North-Eastern part of the country to curtail insurgency, the attacks on Christians had continued unabated. Giving the chronicles of the new spate of killings, it said suspected Boko Haram members attacked Ngoshe village in Gwoza Local Government area of Borno State on November 3 and killed eight Christians. CAN further alleged that several churches had been burnt since the killings were carried out without any of the attackers being arrested. The communique reads in part: “On the 3rd of this month at about 8pm, Boko Haram members attacked Ngoshe village in Gwoza local government area of Borno state and killed 8 Christians: Baba Ayuba, Baba Bitrus and Baba Isa Biyabra, the security guard and four others whose names we are yet to get. “They burnt 11 houses owned by the Christians and three churches: EYN church, Deeper Life Bible church and the Redeemed Christian Church of God. We were informed that when the Christian community sought to9 meet the state governor on this issue, he said, “He does not have the time to see them until February next year.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)